I think the current court reconstituted around SOC and Rehnquist will not revisit RvW unless tried up as you say which really is a formality but if they revisit it the question of viablity will be paramount.
And in that regard the question of the previous decision could protect life at the federal level in a way that hasn't been expressed before.
In other words, the federal gubmint may extend protection to the unborn and define life for the first time. Overall, not a bad thing in my book.
How do you feel about Gonzales?
I think there are much better choices. He was not impressive in his confirmation hearings. I don't think GW is going to nominate him but with all of the attacks he may.