I joined in 2000, so can't say. But conservatives had very low expectations when it came to Clinton. Many of us hoped for much better when it came to W. He didn't disappoint with Roberts, but certainly has with Miers, IMHO.
Having low expectations of someone is no excuse to turn a blind eye.
I sure hope there were loud protests on every move Clinton made.
And just for the record, I'm not disappointed in Miers.
I support her for the position on SCOTUS.