You said: They'll probably try for a change of venue or a new judge. I'd love to see 'em get stuck with Bates though!
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I don't think the plaintiffs can change venue, since they chose it in the first place. They COULD dismiss and refile, hoping for another judge, I guess.
As others have said, I think they just want the notoriety that this kind of case brings.
Maybe they think their publicity will also help the Democrats in 2006. Joe Wilson is waaaaaayyyyy delusional and he thinks he is important enough to sway a bunch of congressional elections.