she's qualified, but 2 straight from the DC Circuit, if you count Ginsburg, that's 3 of the last 4. it just seems likely that they'd look elsewhere.
perhaps Bush chose Roberts to Pplease the Chief and is holding Brown for the first female/black Chief? it seems like a good stategy
The key here is the Rehnquist is hanging on until after this confirmation. He understands that there is only a few short years left in Mr. Bush's term and is a good bet that Stevens or Ruth Bader MIGHT also step down. Stevens is 85, although in good health. Once Roberts is confirmed its saves the nuclear option for Rehnquist and Mr. Bush can nail down the firebrand conservative to replace Rehnquist. Overall, its a great plan for the President. He is playing at least 2 moves ahead right now. Do you think this pick was a surprise for Rehnquist??? Handpicked is more like it.