The vote was 50-48.
HOWEVER, if Murkowski had voted NO instead of abstaining, then Manchin would have also voted NO, making the vote potentially 49 yes, 50 no, forcing Daines to return for the vote making it 50-50, with Pence breaking the tie.
I think in the long run it was better to avoid having Kavanaugh the first Justice confirmed by a VP tie-breaker vote.
Nevertheless, on Judge Jeanine, POTUS referred to Murkowski’s postition as a “Disgrace” which will not be forgotten. He reminded Alaskans of what his administration had already meant to them ... with ANWR oil etc. He rightfully did not threaten to campaign against her in 2022 ... because he’s got to get re-elected first ... but it’s obvious Sarah will have a powerful friend if she runs.
I agree - 50-48 much better than 50-50 tiebreaker ... when news first came out about Daines’ daughter’s wedding I even wondered if that wasn’t overblown to give cover for Murkowski to vote as she did. She is the most political of animals & feels entitled to her seat. The photo of her being browbeaten by DiChi and POTUS comments after the vote suggests that what was perceived to be going on behind the scenes was in fact as it was. Now ... on to DECLAS ;)