Gonzalez will NOT energize the base, Gonzalez will divide the base.
His negatives have been discussed too often to be viable.
See #111.
The problem with the theory is getting another justice to step down. 85 year old Stevens should do so, given he's a republican nominee (Gerald Ford) but he won't.
My fear is that he's a senile old man like Thurmond was with caretakers who prop him up and write all his material.
There should be physical/mental ability tests that justices must pass to maintain their seats, otherwise be forcibly retired.