Posted on 07/28/2005 9:29:25 AM PDT by GPBurdell
It appears the Senate Democrats are heading toward a filibuster of Supreme Court Nominee John Roberts using the same tactic used against UN Ambassador Nominee John Bolton. Democrats have demanded documents the White House has no obligation to produce as they are privileged documents.
During the Clinton years, the Administration repeatedly invoke privilege in refusing to produce documents - they even created the "protective function" privilege - whatever that is. Kennedy, Schumer, Leahy et.al. defended Clinton's claims at the time, but now want Bush to waive privilege so they can play "gotcha" with a Nominee.
Consider this threat from Schumer:
"Something has to give," said Schumer, who is on the Judiciary Committee. "If the nominee does not want to answer questions, then we need more documents. If there is a moratorium on documents, then we need the nominee to answer questions more forthrightly and we need more time to ask those questions."
These "questions" Schumer wants answered really boil down to one: "Will you vote to overturn Roe v Wade?" And if Roberts refuses to answer Schumer's questions what then? Filibuster!
AP: Dems Warn of Delay in Roberts Confirmation
filly-bluster
If the Democrats are marching towards a Filibuster, then the GOP better damn well be prepared to march towards the Constitutional Option. From statements by McCain and Graham, that looks likely, if they and Frist don't wimp out, yet again.
This time, though, there will be the 60 votes to end a filibuster. That's the reason I don't think they will try it.
I hope you're right.
Bottom line: there will be no filibuster on Roberts, for the practical reason that it will collapse immediately. Buzz just hasn't been making the distinction between the threat of a filibuster and it's reality.
Congressman Billybob
Congressman I hope these Senators keep their word. However, we're dealing with Democrats and they (especially Byrd and Clinton) can change their position on a dime and spin until the cows come home. As was already said, the GOP needs to be ready to change the rules to protect the Constitution.
I'm not always right, but I'm never in doubt. :-)
Buzz
Nuke em.
Schumer: If there is a moratorium on documents, then we need the nominee to answer questions more forthrightly and we need more time to ask those questions.
When the gang of 14 did their dirty deed, the Democrats set the escape clause in the terminolog of Extreme.
Now, Schumer's escape clause is: "more forthrightly" as in whose judgement are we talking about.
A dozen Mack Trucks with 18 wheels sideways could drive through the terminology of the Democrats. They never really commit to anything other than their own agendas and own opinions (even that is changeable).
I agree, trigger the nuke option and remind them that in order to be in power, you must win elections. Tough concept, I know.
They are on the run. The day approaches when we may be hunting down democrats with dogs.
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