Two questioners raised the issue of the Supreme Court's controversial intervention in the legal battle surrounding the Florida recount and asked whether the Court's actions really were non-partisan, to which Hatch responded by declaring that such intervention is supported by the electoral process.

Referring to the Court's 7-2 decision that the recount violated the requirements of due process and equal protection, Hatch said he was "surprised the Supreme Court didn't slap down nine to zip" the arguments of Gore's legal team.

Another questioner cited speculation that President George W. Bush will nominate Hatch to the Supreme Court and asked whether Hatch would accept such a nomination. "I think if I wanted to be on the Supreme Court, Reagan would have put me there," Hatch said. "But if you are called, you have to serve."

In addition to discussing the recent actions of the Supreme Court, Hatch emphasized the need for bipartisanship in the judicial nomination and confirmation process.

He cited his own experiences an example, saying that it was he who suggested current Justices Stephen Bryer and Ruth Bader Ginsburg-considered among the Court's most liberal members--to former President Bill Clinton as potential Supreme Court nominees.

Hatch also discussed the recent Napster ruling and asserted the importance of intellectual property rights, referring to his own accomplishments as a song-writer, jokingly saying that his religious music is "the best there is."

Former Governor of Tennessee Lamar Alexander also attended the forum.

After concluding his remarks, Hatch stayed at the Kennedy School to greet students and answer questions.