What the fang-bearing Democrats don't realize is that they have now set a precedent for future confirmation of all judges. Presumably, and as early as 2004, the Democrats will return to the White House. When that happens, the next Democrat President will be equally hard pressed to get his nominees to the bench.
I think the future is bright for Republicans, and America, over the next several years. The Democrats have to defend more Senate seats in the next election. And we've discovered that the old war horses don't like being in the minority, which could lead to earlier than planned retirements.
I would caution against being over-optimistic...I remember 1992. If the economy does not turn around, the next election could be very dicey.
Back to the topic: Whither the stock market? Beats the sh*t out of me. Unlike the pundits, at least I'm willing to admit that I don't have a clue. Having said that, I just have to believe that the foundation has been set for a stronger economy: historically low interest rates, lower marginal tax rates, and the prospect for stabler and lower energy prices.
I like the way you put it, Joe: One could argue it either way but that's the way it is.