Hearings to consider Judge John Roberts for the position of chief justice of the United States are underway and both Democrats and Republicans are arguing about the selection.

The nominee's background and experience will be evaluated by an 18-member Senate Judiciary Committee before a decision is reached, but what interviewers should be focusing on is his views on certain issues.

As a renowned conservative, Roberts is largely backed by Republicans who are hoping he will be an asset within the court and lead it away from overruling congressional decisions. Already, Roberts has served on the Washington D.C. District Court, ruling on federal decisions and has thus far ruled in favor of the Bush administration.

Democrats seem hesitant to have Roberts join the ranks of the Supreme Court, which was apparent after the death of William Rehnquist and President Bush's almost immediate nomination of Roberts for the top position of chief justice. Whether Roberts will help balance the court and further equality in the nation is a major concern for the party, as well as the lack of minority or female representation. We've made it clear in the past that it's a concern for us, too.

Certainly, there are many things about Roberts that are a cause for concern.

It's unclear whether the panel will be addressing key issues already in the courts or in the political arena, but Roberts needs to be asked his beliefs on hot topics, such as abortion, the US Patriot Act and stem cell research. While serving as a justice, Roberts will more than likely have the opportunity to have the defining vote and overrule previous court decisions.

The Republicans have the right to smack their lips in anticipation because Roberts is ultraconservative. The placement of Roberts would add more power to the executive branch and totally disregard the "checks and balances" system on which this country was founded. Bush already has the support of the majority in Congress; it would almost be tyrannical for him to have a hold on the court as well.

Of course, Roberts is only one person and serves a mostly symbolic position on the court. Each justice has one vote and anyone of them could sway controversial decisions. However, appointing Roberts shows the favor toward conservatives from the Bush administration, which might be seen again with the nominee to replace Sandra Day O'Connor.

Two available seats in the Supreme Court provides an incredible opportunity for the judicial branch to have representatives of either a minority or a woman. A diverse court more accurately portrays the country it represents.

Bush's hasty and almost desperate nomination of Roberts to the position of chief justice is a little suspicious. But a more comprehensive look at Roberts' background indicates a rather long and impressive career as a lawyer and somewhat short stint in the D.C. District Court. It's not unusual for a chief judge to be elected without prior experience on the Supreme Court - it's happened before.

But whether Roberts is right for the position needs to be considered after his views on American politics is known.