Hugh Hewitt has a new blogger’s symposium in full swing:
Vox Blogoli 2.2: Does the Senate GOP Go McClellan or Grant if Harry Reid "Goes Gingrich?"
The growing angst in the Senate over future Supreme Court nominees warns of a Red vs. Blue battle that will be epic in its proportions. Democrats, still steaming over their resounding November loss, aren’t about to stop throwing their sore-loser tantrums. President Bush, never one to shrink from confrontation, has knocked the chip off the left’s shoulder by re-nominating former Interior Department Solicitor William Myers, a nominee who was blocked last year, and U.S. District Judge Terrence Boyle, a nominee who has been waiting for his confirmation hearing since the beginning of Bush's presidency.
To answer Hugh’s question, “Should the GOP leadership in the Senate push to a confrontation with the Democrats over the filibustering of judicial nominees,” I say...
Of course! The president is right to be confident in resubmitting his choices. Not only have the voters endorsed his administration by returning him to office; more importantly, he has nominated skilled and ethical judges who deserve their appointments.
I’ve never studied law, but I don’t believe that the slightest violation of law or "Senate tradition" is at the heart of this bitter fight. Religion is the problem for the Democrats. They are terrified that a judicial nominee who believes in accountability to a Power higher than government will find a place on the bench.
To answer the second question, “…if the Dems filibuster even one judicial nominee, should the GOP move to the "nuclear option" of a rule change, even if Harry Reid threatens a Senate shutdown?”
Yes, again! Having forgotten that it was the human soul’s quest for religious freedom that gave birth to our country, the Democrat crusaders are committed to blocking any appointment of judges of faith. This blind and irrational dedication carries them far from their Senate duties, into the realm of the ridiculous (shutting down the Senate) and the irresponsible (during a time of war). Most Americans are tired of obstructionist Senate whiners and would like to see them dealt with firmly. Changing the rules in the midst of a Democratic tantrum would have an effect much like confiscating a spoiled brat’s toys.
It might shock them enough to be quiet and reevaluate for a moment. It might force them to acknowledge the majority rule that refuses to submit to minority tyranny any longer.
It's definitely worth a try.
