Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito sent Focus on the Family founder James Dobson a letter thanking the organization for its “help and support” during his recent confirmation process, Dobson said on his radio show Wednesday.
The letter prompted criticism from groups that had opposed Alito, a former federal appeals-court judge. His nomination to the high court had drawn support from social conservatives who liked his rulings in favor of abortion restrictions and that allowed nativity scenes on public land as long as secular holiday symbols also were displayed.
The letter read in part: “Dear Dr. Dobson: This is just a short note to express my heartfelt thanks to you and the entire staff of Focus on the Family for your help and support during the past few challenging months.
“I would also greatly appreciate it if you would convey my appreciation to the good people from all parts of the country who wrote to tell me that they were praying for me and for my family during this period …
“As long as I serve on the Supreme Court I will keep in mind the trust that has been placed in me.”
Kathy Arberg, a Supreme Court spokeswoman, said Alito “responded to scores of congratulatory letters from people from all walks of life.”
David Yalof, a political-science professor at the University of Connecticut and the author of a book on Supreme Court vacancies, told The Associated Press that Alito’s letter did not appear to violate ethical standards.
“I think it’s a very carefully worded letter, and I don’t think any of it crosses the line,” he said. “As long as Alito didn’t (say) there is any obligation or debt owed, I don’t think it is a violation of judicial canon.”
The Rev. Barry Lynn, executive director of Americans United for Separation of Church and State, said in a statement: “This note strongly suggests that Alito is carrying out a right-wing agenda instead of being a justice for all.”
Tom Minnery, vice president of public policy for Focus on the Family, said in a statement: “We were pleased to receive Justice Alito’s thoughtful note and we were happy to follow his wishes that we share his appreciation with our listeners.”
Dobson, chairman of Colorado Springs-based Focus on the Family and one of the nation’s most influential evangelical leaders, had enthusiastically backed Alito’s nomination. Alito joined the court Jan. 31 after a bitterly divided Senate voted to confirm him.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Staff writer Annette Espinoza can be reached at 303-820-1655 or aespinoza@denverpost.com.
