Sounds to me as though Byrd has just claimed "Independence" from the Liberal interest groups. Sure, it's based on election priorities, but note the other red state Dems didn't blast their own party even while agreeing to vote for Alito. The Liberal interest groups are going to view this as a bigger threat than Alito... somewhat akin to Zell Miller, though Zell's was more driven of conscience. A Democrat claiming Independence of Dem Senate, Kos, Neas and DU? Interesting...
WOnder if any will follow Byrd's lead?
Byrd was careful to express that his independence is limited to Supreme Court nomination.
Specter on the floor, acting as leader and asking for unanimous consent to proceed to the vote.
There is no "speak or vote" rule - it takes UC or cloture to proceed to the vote.