It's All Over

The Senate has fulfilled it's 'advise & consent' obligation by voting 58-42 to confirm Judge Samuel Alito as a the 110th Supreme Court Justice. Partisanship was exceptionally visceral during his confirmation process as politicians weighted the political consequences of their vote instead of the qualification of the candidate. One Republican and four Democrats voted against their party line; Lincoln Chafee (R-RI), Robert Byrd (WV-D), Kent Conrad (D-ND), Tim Johnson (D-SD), and Ben Nelson (D-NE). The lone senatorial independent, Jim Jeffords (VT), voted against Judge Alito. Sen. Jeffords is a former Republican who defected after constant disagreements with the GOP and his 'No' vote was expected. All five votes are representative of the corresponding senator's state proclivity (Blues running in Red states and vice versa regarding Sen. Chafee).

During Judge Alito's hearings, a Senator mentioned how partisanship and divisiveness drives qualified individuals away from service (I believe it was Lindsey Graham (R-SC)). After watching the treatment Judge Alito received, I'm inclined to agree. It's no wonder people make a face when I mention my interest in politics...