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Supreme Court Justices Scalia and Ginsburg Discuss First Amendment At Forum

Source: Alex Wong / Getty

U.S. Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia is dead. Reports out of San Antonio, Texas say the justice was found dead at a resort in West Texas near the city of Marfa. Scalia, at age 79, was the longest serving justice on the Supreme Court and was known for his extremely conservative views and right-wing decisions. He was appointed by President Ronald Reagan in 1986.

Scalia recently raised eyebrows when during an Affirmative Action hearing of the high court, he questioned the place of blacks in higher education–seeming to suggest that some African Americans belonged in ‘lesser’ colleges or universities.

While Scalia was questioning the University of Texas’ attorney, according to the court transcripts,  he said, “There are those who contend that it does not benefit African-Americans to get them into the University of Texas where they do not do well, as opposed to having them go to a less-advanced school, a less — a slower-track school where they do well.” Scalia went on to say, “One of the briefs pointed out that most of the black scientists in this country don’t come from schools like the University of Texas.”

His comments were a head scratcher leaving many to question his motives as the University of Texas stood before the high court defending its use of race as a factor in admissions. His comments sparked debate and a firestorm of social media backlash.

Scalia’s legacy on the U.S. Supreme Court and his impact specifically on the African-American community will likely be hotly debated in the days, weeks, months and years to come.  President Barack Obama will now have the opportunity to fill a vacancy which may change the direction and political leanings of the highest court in the land.

Local reactions to the death of Justice Scalia have come in.  

Indiana Governor Mike Pence directed flags at state facilities statewide to be flown at half-staff to honor the service of United States Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia, in accordance with a presidential proclamation issued Saturday evening.

Flags should be flown at half-staff beginning immediately until sunset on the day of Scalia’s burial. Governor Pence also asked businesses and residents to lower their flags in honor of Justice Scalia’s service to the nation.

Indiana Republican Party Chairman Jeff Cardwell issued the following statement:

“We are deeply saddened by the sudden loss of Justice Scalia. With his nomination from President Ronald Reagan, he fought tirelessly for conservative values and defended our U.S. Constitution with a passion and fervor that is rarely seen today. He will be forever remembered for not only his thought provoking oral and written argument style, but also for his dedication to our country. This is a great loss for America. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this time.”

To keep up with the latest on this story, read more, HERE.

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kimwellsmedia 021316

(last update 16:35 021416)

Follow me on Twitter @kwellscomm.