In simple terms, the statement suggests that because judges on the Supreme Court are appointed rather than elected by the people, they may not be well-suited to determine societal policies. This implies a concern about the democratic legitimacy of the judiciary when it comes to shaping social norms and laws.
The deep meaning of this quote delves into the broader debate about the role of unelected officials in making decisions that affect large segments of society. It raises questions about the balance between judicial independence and accountability to the public will. The statement reflects a viewpoint that elected representatives are more reflective of current societal values, whereas appointed judges might be seen as disconnected from immediate public sentiment and less accountable for their rulings on broad social issues.
Lamar S. Smith is an American politician who has been involved in various legislative processes, particularly focusing on immigration reform and cybersecurity. His statement reflects his long-standing belief in the importance of direct democratic representation when it comes to shaping policies that significantly impact societal structures and values.
