From Deseret News archives:
Tom Delay and Lady Justice
Such a thought must be in the mind of Tom Delay, one of the most powerful legislators in the nation, as he gets "ready for his close up" at a Texas police precinct. Delay's crimes are just alleged at this point. And his promotional spots on talk shows have indeed raised questions about selective prosecution. But his little photo session points up a truth that all Americans would do well to remember.
When the Pledge of Allegiance says "justice for all," it is not only referring to the outcast and disenfranchised who in other nations have no recourse to justice, it refers to anyone movie star, mogul or congressional mover who gets flying high and feels he has risen above the lowly machinery of the American judicial system.
And Americans take a certain pride in that "leveling process." They like to see the disadvantaged have their day in court (think "To Kill a Mockingbird"), and they like to see the haughty brought to heel (think "Columbo"). When citizens get too low on the totem pole or too high society likes to rein them in.
Tom Delay, as a congressman, knows such things, of course. And he knows he's now in a position where twisting arms and calling in markers will do little good. He knows if he is acquitted, the country will declare that justice has been served and he will be exonerated. America lives by the law. But he also knows the nightmare that awaits should the verdict go the other way.
It can feel like a helpless position for an individual. For America itself, however, it has proven to be the most powerful position in the world.
Comments
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