The Broad Role

This article will expand on two major points: first, the nature of the higher responsibility which the Senate owes to considerations of judicial nominations; and second, the factors generally influencing non-consent in the Fortas case. The purpose is not to reopen a discussion of the particularities of Justice Abe Fortas’ quality for appointment as Chief Justice of the United States. Rather we will be concerned only with the types of factors influencing a Senate determination.