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Peter Maassen, who represented the Senate Judiciary Committee, discussed the position of his argument. Thursday, September 9, 2008.
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The state's highest court has ruled to uphold a superior court judge's ruling to dismiss a restraining order against the legislative investigation into the firing of public safety commissioner Walt Monegan.

The ruling came less than 24 hours after both sides made their arguments before four Supreme Court justices Wednesday.

"The Palins respect the Supreme Court's decision today, but keep in mind, the Supreme Court's decision today is not an endorsement of the legislative council's inquiry," said Meg Stapleton, a spokesperson for the McCain Palin campaign.

The ruling came just after noon.

"Disappointed, yes," said Rep. Bob Lynn (R-Anchorage), one of the six Republican lawmakers who sued to stop Troopergate. "Surprised, no. It's just another demonstration of liberal courts in action."

Lynn takes issue with the very term "Troopergate."

"You attach 'gate' to any controversy, any issue, and you're guilty until you're proven guilty."

Peter Maassen represents the Senate Judiciary Committee.

"What we were really defending in our lawsuit was the right of the legislature to conduct its own affairs and be in control in of its own committees, councils and investigations," Maassen said. "We wanted them to be able to do that without interference from the courts and the courts agreed that's appropriate under our system of government."

Steve Branchflower's report is expected Friday.

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