[Dales]

Was it post 1209?

If so, I think the logic might be that the left groups, who the Dems are so unbelievably tied up with right now but America is not yet fully aware of the degree of entanglement, will demand a fight.

Which will serve to highlight the degree of entanglement.

But that's just a swag. I really can't argue with your logic. It sounds like Roberts is close to being the bulletproof monk here. He might have been the better Stevens pick.

[Pukin Dog]

When you have to win a war, you don't send in the Army first. You send in the Marines. You always start with your best. Winning creates momentum all its own. Roberts confirmation will make it much easier for others. Were the first nominee to go down, it would be hell getting anyone through that we would like.

[Torie]

Good point about illuminating the entanglements. But I suspect the Dems will bail, most of them, when they preceive what you do. Going down for the cause, taking casualties, just isn't in it for most of the time servers. They are more into focus groups. They are more into longevity, for longevity's sake.