Roberts Discusses His Role

In a speech before the 8^th Circuit Court of Appeals Chief Justice John Roberts explained what he thinks is most important about his job; defending judicial independence and using his influence and power on behalf of judicial restraint. He rejected any intention of inserting himself into the controversy over filling the vacant Supreme Court seat. “I represent you judges in Washington,” he told his audience, and he made it clear that he understands the symbolic as well as the practical aspects of his job.