They are in the minority but we still need to see the ability to fillibuster removed. It is time congresscritters VOTE up or down.
I do not believe that anyone votes their reps into office to go stall the votes. I think America is really growing weary of this tactic and the Dems are going to continue to pay the political price so long as that is their tactic of choice.
I sent a E mail to Dick Durbin recently about voting up or down on the Alito nomination and here is what I got back in return.
"hank you for your letter expressing your support for Judge Samuel
Alito's nomination to the Supreme Court. I appreciate hearing from you
and knowing your views.
The key role the Senate plays in our system checks and balances has never
been more critical as we contemplate the profound influence Justice Sandra
Day O'Connor's successor will have on the lives, liberties, and legal
protections of Americans for decades to come. Throughout her tenure,
Justice O'Connor has often been the deciding vote in a sharply divided
Court. In the last ten years, there have been 193 5-4 decisions: and
Justice O'Connor was in the majority in 148 of them - more than 75
percent. She has cast the deciding vote on the Court in cases involving
many controversial issues. This is what makes the nomination of her
successor such a pivotal appointment.
As a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, I carefully review the
merits of the nominees presented to us. During this process, I evaluate
the nominee's past record, professional competence, integrity,
temperament, and judicial philosophy; his or her commitment to upholding
the rights and protections established by the Constitution, the Bill of
Rights, and subsequent laws; and the background information and testimony
collected in the course of the candidate's confirmation hearings.
As the Senate considers Judge Alito's nomination, it is essential that
he clearly and candidly discuss his views so that we and the American
people can understand his judicial philosophy. If he is confirmed, Judge
Alito will be voting in crucial decisions regarding civil rights, workers'
rights, women's rights, the environment, and many issues that haven't yet
even reached the courts. It is important to ensure that the next member
of the Supreme Court will protect our freedoms, preserve our rights,
pursue justice, and be fair, open-minded, and independent. I hope the
confirmation process will show clearly whether Judge Alito is such a
person.
Thanks again for your letter.
Sincerely,
Richard J. Durbin
United States Senator
P.S. If you are ever visiting Washington, please feel free to join Senator
Obama and me at our weekly constituent coffee. When the Senate is in
session, we provide coffee and donuts every Thursday at 8:30 a.m. as we
hear what is on the minds of Illinoisans and respond to your questions.
We would welcome your participation. Please call my D.C. office for more
details."