[Kozak]

McCain promises war over Supreme Court

Gee, I would have guessed he meant a war against Bush's appointments. Why don't i believe this guy when he makes a comment like that at a Republican fund raiser?

[Sgt_Schultze]

He's standing up now so it will look like moderation when he stabs W's keister.

[Crolis]

I've always had the impression that in the game of political chess, Bush has always played with the next 5 or 6 moves in mind while his opponents react to immediate concerns. This seems to be why he is so successful in baiting them into a postion that eventually turns to Bush's advantage.

I'm inclined to think that the "compromise" deal and even some of McCain's behavior are guided or orchestrated with long term goals in mind.

Now the pieces look set up to make the Dems look like they aren't acting in good faith when they obviously will attempt to filibuster, and McCain -- who has broad appeal from so called moderates and more conservative democrats -- lends credibility to execute the nuclear option, as was the term of the deal.

Meanwhile the administration has the MSM running off on a wild goose chase on the Plame/Rove issue and not focusing attention on Dem posturing on the SCOTUS nominees.

I'm guardedly optimistic but I think slowly we are in a position to really press the advantage. GOP leadership knows that if they piss off the base, 2006 and 2008 are not going to go well for them.