Do you think any deal was done without the consent of the President?
Of course -- McCain is eyeing the Oval Office and the others are wimps.
There's no leadership here. Frist is in control, not McManchurianCain. They have done nothing but made a deal amongst themselves. 14 < 100
"Do you think any deal was done without the consent of the President?"
Do I think that they consulted Bush?
I doubt it. Besides they routinely sell him out. I doubt that they needed to consult him and get his approval to sell him out. NOTHING was gained here. ALLOT was lost. Bush has NO REASON to WANT THIS. So, no I don't believe Bush was behind this or consulted.
If it was without his knowledge or consent, he should start making recess appointments after the three votes.
I believe I heard him say EVERY nominee should have an up or down vote, no less. [paraphrased]
This will be played ad nauseum as a victory for the Republic and a major loss for President Bush (power hungry dictator they say he is).