IF they could block Alito, think of how great that would be for ...?

[kentuck]

the Democratic Party and how humiliating for the Republican Party? Yes, the Repubs would badmouth the Democrats and call names and spew venom but so what? If the Democrats could look in the crystal ball and see what that would do for our Party and how it would deflate the Republicans, all the Democrats would be on board. It would be great for the country also. Is it possible?

[rzemanfl]

1. If the Red state Dem Senators stay home Monday, yes. They

can call in sick, go back home for someone's funeral or something.

[mom cat]

2. Maybe have an early dinner.

[Blue Belle]

3. Maybe we should invite them to dinner??

:+

[Mediocrates]

4. Wouldn't that....

just cause the Republicans to go and change Senate rules, prevent judicial filibusters, and put him in anyway? I'm new here, somebody explain how that would make the Democratic party look "strong".

[sandnsea]

5. They wouldn't dare

Like all bullies, when you challenge their bluff, they run away with their tail between their legs.

Now run along.

[Mediocrates]

6. Do you have any reason for thinking this?

What makes you think the Republicans would hesitate to ban filibusters? The Bush administration has proved again and again that they're both willing and happy to use force when the option presents itself. A filibuster here could mean winning a battle but losing the war.

[sandnsea]

7. rotfl

A war is won with an accumulation of battles. So we can't possibly lose any war by continuously fighting and winning the most important battles.

The American people have gone a little hazy on their democracy, true. But just like with Teri Schiavo, they do manage time for an occasional glance towards DC. They did not appreciate the government overreaching into Teri's life and they will not like Republicans attempting to silence ALL opposition by killing the filibuster. They will see it as exactly what Democrats have been warning about, a power mad party that needs to be thrown out.

Go ahead, kill the filibuster. And kill the Republican Party for decades to come.

[Mediocrates]

8. Not sure I agree here....

I think you might be overestimating the interest level/commitment of the "average" American. Either way, thanks for putting up with my worst case scenario mentality.

[sandnsea]

9. Nuclear Options

Get their attention. They'll notice. They won't like it. Removing the voice of the minority?? Won't like that one bit. I'm really not worried about it. Not after every other crooked thing the Republicans have been caught at this past year.