Supreme  Court proceedings have never been televised, but a Republican senator and an ethics watch dog group called on the court today to allow cameras to air the health care arguments this March.

Sen. Charles Grassley of Iowa, who sits on the Judiciary Committee, wrote to Chief Justice John Roberts today requesting the court to “exercise its discretion” to permit television coverage of the hearings. The arguments are scheduled to last 5.5 hours.

“The decision in this case has the potential to reach every American,” Grassley wrote. “The law is massive in size and scope. The effect of the law, and the court’s decision, will reverberate throughout the American economy.”

Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington,  a watchdog group, wrote to the chief  justice and was joined by a broad coalition of organizations.

“The court itself clearly recognizes the significance of this case and its wide ranging impact,” said CREW Executive Director Melanie Sloan. “The Supreme Court only offers seating for about 250 visitors, but as we will all be affected by the court’s decision, we should all have a front row seat to hear the arguments. Further, it is a terrific opportunity for Americans to consider the appropriate role of the federal government in mandating state and individual action.”

C-span made a similar request on Tuesday.