Wilkinson v. United States (1960)
- Docket
- 37
- Decided
- 1960-01-01
- Category
- General
Summary
Question: (1) Were the questions asked of Wilkinson pertinent to the subjects under inquiry? (2) Did the subcommittee have the authority to question Wilkinson? Conclusion: Yes, Yes. Justice Potter Stewart, writing for a 5-4 majority affirmed. The Supreme Court held that the subcommittee’s investigation was clearly authorized by Congress. The question of whether Wilkin was a member of the Communist Party was relevant to the inquiry so Wilkinson was obligated to answer. The reasons why Wilkinson was called before the committee were irrelevant to the decision. Justice Hugo L. Black dissented, arguing that an investigation of those who criticize the Un-American Activities Committee is unconstitutional. Chief Justice Earl Warren and Justice William O. Douglas joined in the dissent. Justice Douglas dissented separately, arguing that Congress did not authorize the type of investigation that took place. Chief Justice Warren and Justice Black joined in the dissent. Justice William J. Brennan dissented, arguing that the primary purpose of questioning Wilkinson was to expose him for the sake of exposure, rather than to aid lawmaking. Justice Douglas joined in the dissent.