I don't want to make predictions about John Roberts. While I don't see any evidence he's a fire-breather like Scalia, his background is such that he could be another Rehnquist -- but also, maybe, another Anthony Kennedy (whose background isn't too dissimilar).
I am, however, repulsed by some of the knee-jerk attacks against Roberts. Much is being made in "progressive" circles, for example, about the fact that his wife, attorney Jane Sullivan Roberts, has extensive ties to the group Feminists for Life and served as its executive vice president.
For the Human Rights Campaign crowd and others, opposing
abortion is a de facto signal of opposition to gay equality. But
it's just not so. Feminists for Life, it turns out, is fairly
socially liberal except on abortion, and the group has stood up for
and worked with the Pro-Life Alliance of Gays and Lesbians
(PLAGAL). Here's their creed:
"Established in 1972, Feminists for Life is a non-sectarian, grass-roots organization that seeks true equality for all human beings, particularly women. We oppose all forms of violence, including abortion, euthanasia and capital punishment, as they are inconsistent with the core feminist principles of justice, non-violence and non-discrimination. Our efforts focus on education, outreach and advocacy, as well as facilitating practical resources and support for women in need."
While the lib-left points to Jane Roberts' affiliation as a red
flag, it's in fact a positive signal. Let's hope that in this
regard her husband does share her views.