This letter was sent to all the justices of the United States Supreme Court. – Ed.
Chief Justice
The Supreme Court of the United States
One First Street NE
Washington, DC 20543
July 21, 2012
Dear Chief Justice:
Now that the nation has had time to recover from its collective shock of the Supreme Court ruling on the Affordable Health Care Act, it would appear that more questions than answers have arisen as a result of the decision.
The majority opinion, as I understand it, is that while the individual mandate of Affordable Health Care Act is unconstitutional under the commerce clause, it is constitutional due to the powers granted Congress to tax its citizens.
Astoundingly, as sanctioned by the Supreme Court, and in yet another assault on our liberties, it now seems that for the first time in our nation’s history, citizens can actually be taxed for doing absolutely nothing.
I recognize from the Supreme Court’s comments that it was not passing judgment on the Affordable Health Care Act itself, or the wisdom or merits of the law as it stands. But decisions made by the Supreme Court surely have considerable weighty ramifications and repercussions far beyond its decision regarding this Act.
As has been pointed out, should the government of the day decide to tax people for not purchasing a Bible, using the rationale presented by the Supreme Court, it would be unconstitutional due to the freedom of religion clause of the first amendment, but constitutional under the powers of Congress to tax.
Given the respectful deference and historical tendency of the lower courts to act on precedence, surely this landmark decision will be used for government intervention and forcing the public to make unwanted purchases on a whole host of items in the future? This certainly could not be the intent of our founding fathers who clearly envisaged minimal government intervention and intrusion in our lives.
As has been widely reported, many observers believe the decision of the Supreme Court was made with a view to protect the integrity of the court, and ensuring the public that the perception of the court at least be ‘politically neutral’.
I have not always agreed with the decisions of the Supreme Court, but have always held it in the upmost regard and respect.
Regrettably, with the decision made on the Affordable Care Act – and specifically as it relates to the decision on the individual mandate – my respect for the Supreme Court has been greatly diminished. I fear this will also be the opinion of many of the populace, and it is my belief that the standing of the Court in the court of public opinion will be tarnished for many years to come. Many recent public opinion polls lend credence to my view. All reflect a significant increase in the disapproval of the Supreme Court. This, in and of itself, makes it a truly a sad day for America.
Sincerely,
Stephen Allott
ccs: All Associate Justices of the United States Supreme Court