During his opening statement, Senate Judiciary Chairman Arlen Specter (R.-Pa.) said Chief Justice John Roberts would have a hard time making widespread changes on the Supreme Court because of discussions Roberts had with senators during his confirmation hearings.
"While no promises are extracted, statements are made by nominees which may well influence their future decisions," Specter said. "Chief Justice Roberts will have a tough time giving a 'jolt' to the system after preaching 'modesty' and 'stability.'"
