Justice Marshall and Death Penalty

Thurgood Marshall simply stayed too long on the bench. In the end, he was increasingly isolated in his opinions and ended up basically muttering to himself because time had passed him by. All was well and good during the counterproductive years of the Warren court, but that changed when America’s leaders regained their senses and reined in a runaway judiciary.

If you were a law-abiding, hard-working, God-fearing citizen, Marshall basically had no time for you. Your rights took a back seat to those of vicious criminals, slackers and those who wanted a handout rather than a hand up.

It has taken years to undo the damage done by the Warren court and much more remains to be done. For better or worse, Thurgood Marshall is now consigned to the history books and should not be considered a candidate for sainthood.

Like many other justices before him, Marshall stayed around long enough to abuse the power of his position and tarnish any luster he may have acquired during his legal career. An important figure in the 20th Century? Perhaps. A giant? I don’t think so.

COLIN SINGER

Los Angeles