If nothing else, I hope that Americans grasp and think about your last lines:
"History will remember that it was a republican that appointed Thomas, Powell, and Rice. History will remember these facts."
Future Americans' realization of this just may, in turn, cause pause, in search of reasons as to why.
I appreciate your kind comments. But you are clear, thoughtful, and reasoned in your observations as well.
If you want to read some of my articles, check out wtstewart.blogspot.com