[BobL]

"And then we have the option of changing the rules- no difference."

I thought about that one too - but if the filibuster option is still available when it comes time to block the Supreme Court nominee, then the Reps would look bad for attempting to bypass it at that time. If the Dems lose now, they're finished - which is great for us, but something they, no doubt, must be thinking about.

[de Buillion]

"but if the filibuster option is still available when it comes time to block the Supreme Court nominee, then the Reps would look bad for attempting to bypass it at that time."

I think the Pubbies will take their hit either way, either now or then, but if you see it as less of a hit now, I'm all for pulling the trigger now anyway. This way (now vs later when a scotus position becomes open) we probably have the votes, and there may not be any openings until after '06, and who knows how that will be? DO IT NOW!