Litmus tests

It has almost been a full year since Supreme Court Justice Marty Taylor Retired from the CNMI judiciary. And in that time, the governor still has not nominated a candidate to fill the vacancy created by Mr. Taylor’s departure.

Governor Tenorio is no doubt taking his time, which is quite understandable, given the supreme importance of this position. For the governor must not only choose a competent man; above all, he must choose a man imbued with an innate sense of character–a man of impregnable personal integrity, filled with honor and free of scandal.

Such a man, for example, must never be accused of throwing out his sick and elderly mother-in-law. He must also be above the temptations of adultery–a man who leaves married women alone.

The governor has to be absolutely convinced of the impeccable character of his appointment. The Senate must confirm his choice–and the people, of course, must be well served. Justice, judicial integrity, honor, and the rule of law are all at stake. The reputation of the nominee must be beyond question.

In this connection, former Supreme Court Justice Ramon Villagomez immediately comes to mind. As much as we mightdispute his overly traditional politics, no one can deny that Mr. Villagomez was basically a man of sound moral character, clearly free of scandal.

Bill Clinton claimed he did not inhale. George W. Bush refused to categorically deny ever using cocaine. We can be quite certain that retired Justice Villagomez never used such illicit products. (I am sure that goes for retired Justice Dela Cruz as well–another good man.)

What about today’s potential candidates to the bench? What about David A. Wiseman and Eric Smith, for example?

Did Dave Wiseman ever smoke pot? Did he ever use illegal substances of any kind? Did Eric Smith? Did any of these men ever peddle narcotics in their youth? These are pertinent questions that demand truthful responses.

For that matter, does Eric Smith regularly patronize hostess bars as some attorney is alleged to have done in the past? Have any of these men traded legal services for sex, frequented prostitutes, or committed adultery with a female subordinate? Has the candidate ever employed illegal aliens? Which man is more morally honorable, and therefore worthy of the position of a judge?

What is the worst that could ever be said about David Wiseman? Eric Smith? (Or John Beihl, if he is still in the running?)

The governor must choose the most honorable, scandal free candidate–whenever he gets around to it.