"The point is, the fundamental equation has not changed. The real battle is over the Supreme Court. The Supreme Court sets precedent for the lower courts to follow. While these lower posts are important, it's even more important to get conservatives on the High Court.
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At this rate, it will NOT happen.
In 2000 there were various reports that at least 2 SC judges might retire for whatever reasons (health and age), but not a one has. Is it just a personal decision of the judges' to hang onto power and productivity as long as they can, or it is because they don't like the congressional enviroment for a successor? I really don't know.
you answered your own question. It's probably both: power and the Congress situation. The point is, we need to keep Bush so it's the libs who feel the pressure, not Rhenquist.