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The Issue Senators Dare Not Speak of by Name
Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Arlen Specter (R-Penn.) holds a chart listing cases dealing with abortion during the Roberts confirmation hearings Tuesday.
(Mark Wilson-Getty Images)
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"That is in an area where I think I should not respond," Roberts said.
"Why?" Biden demanded. When Roberts tried to explain himself, Biden interjected "that is not true" and, shaking his head sadly, said, "aw, judge, judge."
Specter tried to referee. "Wait a minute, Senator Biden," the chairman said. "He's not finished his answer."
"He's filibustering, senator," Biden responded.
To Roberts, Biden said: "Go ahead. Go ahead and continue not to answer."
Biden was caustic and personal. Discussing an old Roberts memo on gender discrimination, the senator accused Roberts of "very poor staff work" and said: "I hope you don't still hold that view, man."
Roberts got his revenge when Biden quizzed him about gender discrimination. Biden cut the judge off repeatedly, saying "my time's running out."
Roberts indulged in a small measure of revenge. While Biden fired off a series of questions without allowing Roberts to answer, the nominee finally replied: "Well, I was about to lay it out. You said you didn't want to hear about it." The room filled with laughter. Biden did not smile.
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