William H. Rehnquist, RIP

I learned tonight, just a few minutes ago, that Chief Justice Rehnquist died tonight.  He was a great lawyer, an excellent judge, and a good, decent man.  Like his colleagues, and like all of his clerks, I admire him very much, and have great affection for him.  He was, in person, light-hearted, witty, caring, and an excellent teacher. I hope that the political spin will not drown out what Americans should remember about the Chief:  He was a dedicated publilc servant, committed to the rule of law and to the Court as an institution.  He regarded himself as the bearer of a great trust, and of a heavy obligation of stewardship.  He was faithful to that trust, and he fulfilled that obligation.  God bless him.

Rick

UPDATE:  Here is a short, personal reflection I did for Slate.com about the Chief.