BOLDNESS NEEDED

Given the considerable disapproval the President has suffered recently from his own quarters, including his most conservative base, this would be a fine opportunity for Mr. Bush to do something completely out of character when it comes to domestic issues—act boldly. This is a president who has not vetoed a single big spending bill, or any other legislation, since he was elected. A bold choice, as we have noted before, would be the nomination of Janice Rogers Brown.

Democrats, most of who have come to realize that they can't beat the Republicans in the marketplace of ideas or in the voting booth, are, of course, already lining up in opposition to whoever the next nominee will be. This includes many who voted for John Roberts and some who were part of the anti-filibuster "Gang of 14" agreement earlier in the session. Working with a constantly shifting definition of what a "conservative nominee" truly is, the Demos are hoping to boost their party's sagging power and are threatening a filibuster if things don't go their way. Once again, they are prepared to make their case at the expense of what is right for the country.

From The Fed.Pat.