I just finished watching our President give The State of the Union Address. I must say first of all that he is a very gifted speaker. It was also good to be reminded of our Congress' efforts to cut taxes this past year. I do however have a single problem with the speech given tonight.
The State of The Union Address should not be a speech used to bully another branch of government. Unlike Congress who cheers, claps or remains seated in partisan fashion, the Supreme Court respectfully declines from showing any partiality. This should be commended, but it was not tonight. President Obama purposely called them out on a ruling that he disagreed with and asked that Congress work to correct it. Was their ruling good or bad? It does not matter! This was not the time or place to call into question an entire branch of government that helps to balance the separation of powers.
We were told tonight that the American people have a lack of trust when they see Congress vote along party lines. Yet, we are willing to single out the only non-partisan branch of government. They sat in the front, with their hands in their laps, as they took the bullying in stride. That is except for one who reacted as if in shock. Justice Alito quietly shook his head and mouthed "that's not true" as the rest of the Justices sat in silence. I firmly respect our President, and I ask that he would extend respect to our other branches of government as well. This is especially true in a speech like this. One that should not be used for pot shots or political posturing.
The clip can be seen here: President Obama vs. The Supreme Court
