Activism Quote by Karl Rove
“'Empathy' is the latest code word for liberal activism, for treating the Constitution as malleable clay to be kneaded and molded in whatever form justices want. It represents an expansive view of the judiciary in which courts create policy that couldn't pass the legislative branch or, if it did, would generate voter backlash.”
About This Quote
Source Opinion piece: The Wall Street Journal, 2021
Labeling judicial activism as “empathy” masks political motives
In simple terms: Calling courts “empathic” can justify policy overreach
Question the motives behind legal rhetoric
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- elections
- legislative debates
- public discourse
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does empathy affect legal decisions?
- What checks balance judicial power?
Over‑use of empathy may erode accountability