[MohawkDrums]

Actually, Republicans did use the filibuster against Democratic appointees. There were a couple of cloture votes in 2000. I wouldn't get too worked up about this -- eventually, once the point has been made, the filibusters tend to go away. It's all a show for the folks at home.

The more interesting question here is, how many votes does it take to change the Senate rules? Looks like they need a two-thirds majority to change the filibuster rule, which means they need some Democratic votes.

[FredZarguna]

I said I might be mistaken, and now that you mention it there were some appointees blocked--don't recall if they were judges. Clinton got around some by recess appointments--which Bush should also have done. But I still think it's fair to say this has gone to a new level. It's become routine to filibuster judicial appointments, and that was not common in the past. One thing further: I don't share your optimism. I think the Dems will dig their heels in and this problem will not go away.

[FredZarguna]

The more interesting question here is, how many votes does it take to change the Senate rules? Looks like they need a two-thirds majority to change the filibuster rule, which means they need some Democratic votes.

I would be surprised--even at 55--if they could even get enough Republicans for a majority.