[JCEccles]

We also know that Bush only considered women for the slot. If he had five women in mind, four declined. That's believeable.

He should have broadened his criteria to include men instead of playing affirmative action quota games. He would have found qualified nominees willing to face the jackals on the Senate Judiciary Commitee.

[Eagles6]

We tend to forget the politically correct rinos. They don't do what GW tells them. Republican appointments to SCOTUS have been disappointing. Only way we'll find out about this one is if she's confirmed. Personally I'd like to see a constitutional scholar who is not a judge or a shark...er.. I mean an attorney.

[sageb1]

"We also know that Bush only considered women for the slot. If he had five women in mind, four declined. That's believeable. He should have broadened his criteria to include men instead of playing affirmative action quota games. He would have found qualified nominees willing to face the jackals on the Senate Judiciary Commitee."

I have not made up my mind and I am willing (somewhat) to give the President the benefit of the doubt, however, I was not happy about the comments by Laura Bush that sexism was a possible motive for discontent, nor was I thrilled that the thread discussing that was pulled this morning. If Mrs. Bush makes a comment, then as far as I'm concerned, her comments are up for discussion.

[nerdgirl]

He should have broadened his criteria to include men instead of playing affirmative action quota games

I couldn't agree more. It seems the Katrina disaster was also affected by the president's reticence to be perceived as usurping the power of a woman governor (although clearly her being a democrat was also a consideration). If women are ever going to achieve true equality, it won't be through affirmative action selections to the Supreme Court, and presidents who tiptoe softly around female governors.