[Cboldt]

Dya think Snowe and Collins want to get to the head of the line on reconsideration of base closings? Or do they want the woodshed again?

I think the base closings and realignments will be decided more or less independently of how the nomination process goes down. If they can make a case for keeping the bases open, then they will be.

[frithguild]

I think the base closings and realignments will be decided more or less independently of how the nomination process goes down. If they can make a case for keeping the bases open, then they will be.

There is always and argument that a bases should be kept open. For example, a "consolidate operations" is more efficient. So - Snowe and Collins fall in line on Filibuster, they make a "consolidate" argument in favor of Kittery, which takes hold. Kittery will win out over Groton, just in time for reelections in 2006.

Just my SWAG.