(Annapolis, MD) - Delegate Don Dwyer of Anne Arundel County, Maryland has long promised to impeach any judge that would overturn the state's marriage law. Such a ruling, by definition, would be "judicial activism, abuse of power, and a violation of the public trust," according to Dwyer. However, near midnight last night, the Judiciary Committee voted to cease impeachment procedures.
Four delegates, however, have stood with Delegate Dwyer. Delegate Tonya Shewell and Delegate Christopher Shank are members of the Judiciary Committee that voted to continue the process. Delegate Rick Impallaria and Delegate Pat McDonough both signed onto the resolution in support.
Yesterday's hearing, which was held near midnight to discourage attendance by the public or the news media, fell short of the impeachment hearing that Delegate Dwyer had hoped for. He took the opportunity, however, to educate his colleagues on the respective roles of the legislature and judiciary.
"I have kept my commitment to the citizens of Maryland that I would hold the court accountable. I have done my duty to protect and defend the laws of Maryland and I have carried the ball to the end. At the end of the day, I am not responsible for my colleague's inaction but the citizens of Maryland might want to remember this during November's election," Dwyer said.