"Neil Gorsuch, Donald Trump's Supreme Court nominee, explained"
1. Where is Neil Gorsuch currently working?
He is a respected jurist by conservatives and liberals alike, currently working as the judge of the 10th Circuit.
2. Why are Democrats likely to attempt to fight this nomination?
They want to do what the Republicans did to Obama's failed nominee, Merrick Garland, which is to filibuster.
3. How are people predicting the way he might rule on abortion cases that reach the court?
He would strongly oppose abortion at any stage because "human life is fundamentally and inherently valuable and the intentional taking of human life by private persons is always wrong."
4. How would you describe his views on religious freedom?
He seems somewhat fair in his respect for religious freedom, calling for broad deference to religious groups, not limited to Christians, of their beliefs despite potential inconsistencies or unscientific aspects. However, his definition of religious freedom borders offensive as he supports broad religious expression in public spaces.
5. What opinions about the role of judges does he share with former justice Scalia?
Like Scalia, Gorsuch strongly sticks to judicial restraint and strict interpretation of the Constitution, sharply separating judges from legislators.
6. What percentage of all federal court cases end up being decided by a split SCOTUS?
Only 0.014%
7. What does that tell you about the vast majority of federal court cases?
The Supreme Court prefers to judge matters that aren't so controversial.
8. Why do people think that Gorsuch will have an important role in swaying "swing vote" Anthony Kennedy on so many issues?
Gorsuch has clerked for Kennedy and may be able to influence him.
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