'Why Is It That Walmart & Lowe's Can Be Open But Churches Had To Be Closed?': Hawley Grills Nominee

Introduction

This tutorial analyzes a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing where Senator Josh Hawley questioned Ryan Young Park about the disparity in treatment between essential businesses like Walmart and Lowe's and churches during the COVID-19 pandemic. The discussion highlights constitutional rights, particularly the First Amendment, and the implications of government policies on religious gatherings.

Step 1: Understanding the Context of the Hearing

• Recognize the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting government restrictions on gatherings.
• Note the specific executive order that banned indoor gatherings of more than 10 people but allowed certain businesses to remain open.
• Understand the legal and constitutional implications of these restrictions, especially concerning religious freedom.

Step 2: Analyzing the Arguments Presented

• Examine the arguments presented by Senator Hawley regarding the perceived discrimination against churches.
• Identify key points made by the senator:
  • Essential businesses were allowed to operate while churches were restricted.
  • The government's rationale for treating religious gatherings differently raises questions about respect for the First Amendment.

Step 3: Exploring the Legal Framework

• Familiarize yourself with the legal context mentioned in the hearing:
  • The role of the solicitor general in defending state policies.
  • Reference to Supreme Court decisions, particularly the South Bay decision, which influenced the legal landscape regarding religious gatherings during the pandemic.

Step 4: Evaluating the Responses

• Assess Ryan Young Park's responses to the senator's questions:
  • Understand his defense as an attorney representing the state and the limitation of his role in crafting policy.
  • Analyze his justification for the executive order and the decision not to appeal after an adverse ruling.

Step 5: Recognizing the Implications for Religious Freedom

• Reflect on the broader implications of this hearing for religious institutions and civil liberties:
  • Consider the balance between public health measures and constitutional rights.
  • Discuss the potential impact of these decisions on future policies regarding religious gatherings and civil liberties.

Conclusion

This hearing underscores the tensions between public safety measures and the protection of constitutional rights during a crisis. As future policies are crafted, it's vital to ensure that they do not infringe on the fundamental freedoms guaranteed by the First Amendment. Keeping abreast of such discussions can help citizens advocate for their rights effectively.