So who is the nominee going to be? Any guesses?
initially - what it will be is, A SECRET. we have to get Roberts through first. Bush should simply say that Roberts is going up, deal with that, his mind is focused on the Katrina reconstruction, and he will not pick a replacement and enter that political dogfight while reconstruction from the hurricane is taking place.
that's how I would spin it.
Don't think we'll know until Roberts is confirmed. Condolences to his family as he will be sorely missed.