Heated Debates Over High Court Nominees

Galesburg, IL – When the U.S. Senate returns from its August recess, it will be asked to approve the appointment of John Roberts to the Supreme Court. The debate could become heated, though that's nothing new. Knox College political science professor Lane Sunderland says there were numerous battles over nominees during the 19th century. But he believes the most contentious hearings happened during the 20th century, including those for Louis Brandeis, Robert Bork, and Clarence Thomas. Sunderland is an expert on the U.S. Supreme Court and the U.S. Constitution. He's also a former Supreme Court Judicial Fellow. Listen to his conversation with News Director Rich Egger by clicking on the audio button above.