Ruling only will of people who voted

Since 1962, Iowa has been the envy of most every other state because of the independence of our judiciary. That is until Nov. 2. A dedicated minority made it about individuals when, in fact, this election was a referendum on the independence and impartiality of our judiciary. A few points worth noting:

-- 1,111,504 votes were cast in this election.

-- About 978,300 votes were cast in the Supreme Court justices retention ballot - 531,500 against and 446,700 for.

-- About 133,000 voters did not vote on retention.

Those who voted “no” represent 48 percent of the people who voted and only 34 percent of all registered voters. A claim that this vote was the “will of the people” is wrong.

Legislatures protect the rights of the majority. The Iowa Constitution and the courts protect the rights of minorities. A legislative majority could decide that pig farming in Iowa should be banned. If you were a pig farmer, you might object, but if you're a minority and don't have the votes, tough.

But wait, the Constitution says that would be an infringement of your equal protection rights. Wave the Constitution at the Legislature, but they say it is the “will of the people.” All you have left is an independent judiciary to protect your rights.

My frustration is not with the “no” votes. It is with the non-votes. The bright light that was Iowa is no more.

Joseph C. Johnston

Iowa City