Confirmed: Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia Found Dead at W. Texas Luxury Resort

Whoa if true
US News • Views: 46,768

Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia has been found dead at a West Texas luxury resort. From the San Antonio Express News:

Associate Justice Antonin Scalia was found dead of apparent natural causes Saturday on a luxury resort in West Texas, federal officials said.

Scalia, 79, was a guest at the Cibolo Creek Ranch, a resort in the Big Bend region south of Marfa.

According to a report, Scalia arrived at the ranch on Friday and attended a private party with about 40 people. When he did not appear for breakfast, a person associated with the ranch went to his room and found a body.

The second source: BREAKING: Surpreme Court Justice Scalia dies during hunting trip in Marfa.

EL PASO - An El Paso source close to Justice Antonin Scalia tells ABC-7 that the 79-year-old died in his sleep last night after a day of quail hunting at Cibolo Creek Ranch outside of Marfa, Texas.

UPDATE at 2/13/16 2:06:36 pm by Charles Johnson
UPDATE at 2/13/16 2:09:32 pm by Charles Johnson
UPDATE at 2/13/16 2:15:26 pm by Charles Johnson

Get ready for an epic battle, folks. President Obama now has a chance to break the conservative stranglehold on the Supreme Court.

UPDATE at 2/13/16 2:35:17 pm by Charles Johnson

Ted Cruz wastes no time getting his obstructionism on.

UPDATE at 2/13/16 3:10:34 pm by Charles Johnson

Jump to bottom

488 comments
1
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 1:59:59pm

Condolences to his family. Just stunning news if true.

2
Kragar  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:00:43pm

3rd Source

3
Testy Toad T  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:00:56pm

re: #1 HappyWarrior

Condolences to his family. Just stunning news if true.

Huge, yes. Stunning… I mean, he was a large-ish man who was almost eighty years old.

4
Billy Batts  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:01:00pm

And so it begins…

5
Testy Toad T  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:02:05pm

re: #4 Billy Batts

Because Obama isn’t really the President of the United States anymore, and shouldn’t discharge the duties ascribed to him by the Constitution.

Ridonkulous nonsense. Utterly and completely.

6
lawhawk  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:03:30pm

re: #4 Billy Batts

7
Kragar  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:03:36pm

re: #4 Billy Batts

8
ObserverArt  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:03:52pm

re: #4 Billy Batts

And so it begins…

[Embedded content]

Wait for tonight. Cruz will be making this his whole thing in the debate. As will others. They will turn this into some kind of a sign of why everyone needs a conservative president.

9
Tigger2  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:04:47pm

re: #4 Billy Batts

And so it begins…

[Embedded content]

10
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:04:56pm

re: #3 Testy Toad T

Huge, yes. Stunning… I mean, he was a large-ish man who was almost eighty years old.

I meant in what it means for the Supreme Court. But that’s true as well. Hard to believe he was on the court for 30 years.

11
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:05:15pm

re: #9 Tigger2

[Embedded content]

Yeah that’s now how it works asshole.

12
EPR-radar  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:05:20pm

re: #4 Billy Batts

Of course. I fully expect the Republican Congress to do exactly this, and to receive aid and comfort for this obstruction from their usual enablers in the main stream media.

13
ObserverArt  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:05:30pm

re: #5 Testy Toad T

Because Obama isn’t really the President of the United States anymore, and shouldn’t discharge the duties ascribed to him by the Constitution.

Ridonkulous nonsense. Utterly and completely.

You mean he is not going to call for martial law and suspend the elections!!!???!!!

14
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:05:34pm

re: #8 ObserverArt

Wait for tonight. Cruz will be making this his whole thing in the debate. As will others. They will turn this into some kind of a sign of why everyone needs a conservative president.

Cruz I want to say clerked for him or Rehnquist.

15
Billy Batts  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:05:39pm

re: #9 Tigger2

So he wants Hillary to appoint the next justice?
/

16
Testy Toad T  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:05:42pm

re: #8 ObserverArt

Wait for tonight. Cruz will be making this his whole thing in the debate. As will others. They will turn this into some kind of a sign of why everyone needs a conservative president.

Watch Rubot attempt to memorize an entirely new set of talking points in four hours!

This is absolutely terrible timing for his campaign. Couldn’t happen to a better toad.

17
Kragar  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:05:47pm
18
sizzzzlerz  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:05:53pm

Dick Cheney wasn’t spotted in the vincinity, was he?

19
Kragar  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:06:16pm

I’d say Abbot’s statement makes it official

20
lawhawk  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:06:57pm
21
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:07:18pm

re: #19 Kragar

I’d say Abbot’s statement makes it official

Yeah I have to say so. I won’t qualm with any of the nice words he used to describe Scalia. Far from my favorite person but I know I resented the attacks on Ted Kennedy he died and I will afford Scalia the respect I wanted for Teddy.

22
Charles Johnson  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:07:32pm
23
Billy Batts  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:08:27pm

LOLZ

24
ObserverArt  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:08:44pm

re: #22 Charles Johnson

[Embedded content]

Political fucking vultures.

25
Billy Batts  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:09:24pm

re: #17 Kragar

Abbott’s gonna be praying a loooooong time…

26
Charles Johnson  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:09:40pm
27
allegro  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:09:56pm

re: #18 sizzzzlerz

Dick Cheney wasn’t spotted in the vincinity, was he?

I swear that was my first thought when I heard he was quail hunting.

28
Kragar  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:10:00pm

re: #23 Billy Batts

29
I Stand With Planned Parenthood  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:10:35pm

just heard

30
Barefoot Grin  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:10:38pm

He wasn’t hunting with Cheney was he?

31
wrenchwench  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:11:14pm

re: #19 Kragar

I’d say Abbot’s statement makes it official

I do not remember feeling happiness before at the news of someone’s death the way I did when I read your comment on the previous thread.

32
BlueGrl21  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:11:30pm

None of the big news networks are carrying it yet. All Trump.

I do not believe this to be a statement on the truth of his death. I believe he is dead. It’s more of an observation of the quality of those networks these days.

33
Charles Johnson  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:12:16pm

Get ready for the battle of the century. President Obama now has a chance to break the conservative stranglehold on the Supreme Court.

34
Brother Holy Cruise Missile of Mild Acceptance  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:12:28pm

Holy Shit. That’s about all I can say. Condolences to his family.

35
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:12:47pm

re: #33 Charles Johnson

Get ready for the battle of the century. President Obama now has a chance to break the conservative stranglehold on the Supreme Court.

Yep.

36
Tigger2  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:12:52pm

Needs reposted over and over again.

37
Brother Holy Cruise Missile of Mild Acceptance  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:13:08pm

re: #33 Charles Johnson

Get ready for the battle of the century. President Obama now has a chance to break the conservative stranglehold on the Supreme Court.

They’ll never let him. Republicans will have the chance to prove they can govern and be a mature, responsible party (again) and will fail miserably.

38
Testy Toad T  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:13:54pm

re: #33 Charles Johnson

Get ready for the battle of the century. President Obama now has a chance to break the conservative stranglehold on the Supreme Court.

I would bet tens of dollars that there is not a person on this Earth that would both get nominated by Obama and confirmed by what passes for a functioning Senate.

39
Snarknado!  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:13:54pm

re: #36 Tigger2

Needs reposted over and over again.

[Embedded content]

All the updings.

40
wrenchwench  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:14:04pm

re: #36 Tigger2

Needs reposted over and over again.

[Embedded content]

I was just gonna post that. Oh, wait. You said it needs to be reposted. Here.

41
I Stand With Planned Parenthood  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:14:14pm

Hubby has Fox on. —They are covering it now.

42
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:14:25pm

re: #38 Testy Toad T

I would bet tens of dollars that there is not a person on this Earth that would both get nominated by Obama and confirmed by what passes for a functioning Senate.

Yeah I’m afraid that’s exactly what’s going to happen here.

43
Shiplord Kirel  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:14:26pm

re: #21 HappyWarrior

Yeah I have to say so. I won’t qualm with any of the nice words he used to describe Scalia. Far from my favorite person but I know I resented the attacks on Ted Kennedy he died and I will afford Scalia the respect I wanted for Teddy.

Sure thing this site won’t tolerate any gross disrespect. Justice Scalia leaves a large family, including grandchildren, and if nothing else they deserve some respect and consideration.

44
lawhawk  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:14:32pm

Thing is that as a matter of practice, you can’t leave the vacancy for that long. The Court could be left with deadlocking 4-4 decisions, and that’s simply a recipe for disaster - for both sides of the aisle who have any understanding of the Court’s workings.

No, the President will face an interesting decision on who to consider for the seat. We will see some of the same names that came up during the Souter and Stevens replacements. Those retirements led to Sotomayor and Kagan.

And once again, the focus on the Supreme Court again reminds people of just how important winning in November has. The choice of a Supreme Court nominee confirmed by the Senate will have lasting effect on court decisions for a long time to come.

45
I Stand With Planned Parenthood  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:14:41pm

re: #39 Snarknado!

All the updings.

and retweets!

46
Kragar  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:14:43pm

re: #33 Charles Johnson

Get ready for the battle of the century. President Obama now has a chance to break the conservative stranglehold on the Supreme Court.

And the #GOP will be showing their ass every step of the way as they try to stop him in a major election year

47
Snarknado!  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:15:00pm

In the meantime, how will this affect votes on currently pending cases?

48
Tigger2  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:15:29pm

re: #40 wrenchwench

I was just gonna post that. Oh, wait. You said it needs to be reposted. Here.

[Embedded content]

At least 3 times a day. : ))

49
I Stand With Planned Parenthood  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:15:34pm

current cases will be decided if they have a majority …

50
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:15:47pm

re: #43 Shiplord Kirel

Sure thing this site won’t tolerate any gross disrespect. Justice Scalia leaves a large family, including grandchildren, and if nothing else they deserve some respect and consideration.

Exactly. And I’ll add that he’s also a good personal friend of Ruth Bader Ginsburg. If you don’t want to show respect and consideration to the Scalia family, at least give it to her. I’m just stunned because of what this means for the Court but as you get at, this man is someone’s father and grandfather.

51
freetoken  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:15:50pm

re: #47 Snarknado!

In the meantime, how will this affect votes on currently pending cases?

9 justice decisions are not required.

52
I Stand With Planned Parenthood  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:17:07pm

Justice Scalia robed-up and showed-up. He worked to the best of his ability and according to his conscious.

We really can’t ask for anything more.

53
Snarknado!  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:17:19pm

re: #51 freetoken

9 justice decisions are not required.

Not what I meant. 4-4 means lower court decision stands.

54
allegro  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:17:26pm

re: #44 lawhawk

Thing is that as a matter of practice, you can’t leave the vacancy for that long. The Court could be left with deadlocking 4-4 decisions, and that’s simply a recipe for disaster - for both sides of the aisle who have any understanding of the Court’s workings.

No, the President will face an interesting decision on who to consider for the seat. We will see some of the same names that came up during the Souter and Stevens replacements. Those retirements led to Sotomayor and Kagan.

And once again, the focus on the Supreme Court again reminds people of just how important winning in November has. The choice of a Supreme Court nominee confirmed by the Senate will have lasting effect on court decisions for a long time to come.

This will certainly bring that issue to the top of the stack for the rest of the election year. It will be most interesting to see how it plays out.

55
Kragar  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:17:34pm
56
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:17:41pm

re: #51 freetoken

9 justice decisions are not required.

Right, there are ocassions when eight of the justices make the decision if one of the justices has a conflict of interest or something like that. I remember Kagan sitting out one involving something with the Obama administration that was implemented while she was solicitor general.

57
Skip Intro  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:17:44pm

Poor Clarence Thomas. Who’s going to tell him what to do now?

58
Testy Toad T  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:18:03pm

re: #52 I Stand With Planned Parenthood

Justice Scalia robed-up and showed-up. He worked to the best of his ability and according to his conscious.

We really can’t ask for anything more.

We can ask for justices to ASK DAMNED QUESTIONS.

/stares daggers at Thomas

59
Kragar  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:18:44pm

re: #55 Kragar

60
I Stand With Planned Parenthood  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:19:04pm

He was the first Italian-American to be on the court.

61
Backwoods_Sleuth  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:19:14pm
62
Tigger2  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:19:15pm
63
Kragar  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:19:24pm
64
darthstar  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:20:13pm

Shit just got real.

65
retired cynic  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:20:44pm

re: #63 Kragar

I am in the place where I can’t say anything, except condolences to his friends and family.

66
I Stand With Planned Parenthood  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:21:11pm

9? children, married over 50 years.

67
Kragar  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:21:39pm
68
Snarknado!  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:22:06pm

re: #63 Kragar

I can express condolences to his family, and I have a policy of not cheering people’s deaths — but as to his departure from the Court, good riddance.

69
Tigger2  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:22:10pm

If I wasn’t already for Hillary my vote would change now because I think she has a better chance in the General.

70
Pawn of the Oppressor  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:22:23pm
According to a report, Scalia arrived at the ranch on Friday and attended a private party with about 40 people. When he did not appear for breakfast, a person associated with the ranch went to his room and found a body.

That’s not a bad way to go. Sucks that he didn’t get to enjoy his vacation though.

For people joking about West Texas, I’ve heard Big Bend is a nice outdoorsy place to visit. I know a lot of riders go out there for motorcycle and camping vacations.

Now if he was vacationing in Lubbock, that would be different. :P

As if the rest of the year wasn’t already going to be a fucking fiasco politically, now there’s this. The right-wing noise machine will be on afterburner by sunset.

71
I Stand With Planned Parenthood  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:22:32pm

Regardless of politics, I have to admire.

72
wrenchwench  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:22:54pm
73
PhillyPretzel  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:22:59pm

re: #66 I Stand With Planned Parenthood

As per Wiki yes. en.wikipedia.org

74
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:23:26pm

He did make his life in public service. I do respect that.

75
stpaulbear  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:23:27pm

re: #47 Snarknado!

In the meantime, how will this affect votes on currently pending cases?

Thomas won’t know what to do.

76
Aunty Entity Dragon  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:23:34pm

This is going to be biggest SCOTUS battle of the last hundred years.

77
PhillyPretzel  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:24:16pm

re: #76 Aunty Entity Dragon

Yes. One heck of a big battle.

78
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:24:36pm

re: #76 Aunty Entity Dragon

This is going to be biggest SCOTUS battle of the last hundred years.

Gonna make Bork look like Scalia’s own battle (look it up, he was confirmed unanimously). I can’t help but to be curious about who Obama will pick and I know with certainty that person will be demonized.

79
wrenchwench  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:24:38pm

re: #70 Pawn of the Oppressor

That’s not a bad way to go.

For people joking about West Texas, I’ve heard Big Bend is a nice outdoorsy place to visit. I know a lot of riders go out there for motorcycle and camping vacations.

Now if he was vacationing in Lubbock, that would be different. :P

As if the rest of the year wasn’t going to be a fucking fiasco politically, now there’s this. The right-wing noise machine will be on afterburner by sunset.

I have heard nice things about the Big Bend area. A couple moved from here to Marfa, so it must be nicer than here.

80
Aunty Entity Dragon  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:24:59pm

re: #74 HappyWarrior

He did make his life in public service. I do respect that.

His life was spent voting to put people like me in Texas prisons and say our marriages were a fiction.

I am sorry for his loved ones. I am not sorry to see him go.

81
Decatur Deb  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:25:08pm

He was a human. RIP.

To the mater at hand, if the TPGOP choose to obstruct a moderately liberal Obama nominee, they can face Hillary’s nominee. She will have 8 years to get hers through.

82
Joe Bacon  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:25:34pm

Obama nominates Biden to the Supreme Court and dares the Senate to reject him.

This is going to be so fucking delicious! Buy those popcorn and butter futures folks!

83
Stormageddon, Dark Lord of All  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:25:44pm

Well damn,

My condolences to his friends and family. What ever differences I had with the principles he followed, death is never a cause for celebration, but instead remembrance. Rest in Peace Justice Scalia.

(Edited because my phone hates me)

84
I Stand With Planned Parenthood  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:25:44pm

He was Italian-American —his wife Irish-American —Catholic.

Smart as shit.

He was probably an good father, neighbor and friend.

and patriarchal —this defining his viewpoints.

85
blueraven  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:26:03pm

Cue conspiracy theories that somehow Obama is responsible for the death of Scalia.

RIP Antonin Scalia

That is the best I can do. Thoughts for Family and for RBG. It is said they were great friends despite their judicial philosophy differences.

86
GlutenFreeJesus  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:26:06pm

Can Obama, being on the tail end of his 2nd term, nominate himself? (If only)

87
Shiplord Kirel  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:26:24pm

Freeper response is one long deafening howl for the Republicans to obstruct the appointment of a replacement.
This includes many bitter attacks on cowardly RINOs for their failure to be even more obstructive. (Remember, these are people who see calls for Obama’s impeachment as a reasonable, restrained position).
One freeper, though, has apparently tried to hit the conspiracy angle, only to contradict herself with a double negative:

i wouldnt be surprised if the illumanti didnt do this

88
Kragar  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:26:29pm
89
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:26:37pm

re: #80 Aunty Entity Dragon

His life was voting to put people like me in Texas prisons and say our marriages were a fiction.

I am sorry for his loved ones. I am not sorry to see him go.

True that.

90
I Stand With Planned Parenthood  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:27:06pm

Well, he lived a full life and probably with few regrets. Like so many, didn’t understand the present.

91
Skip Intro  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:27:34pm

Right now the candidates for tonight’s debate are looking for the most far right, depraved wingnuts they can find to claim that’s who they’d appoint.

92
I Stand With Planned Parenthood  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:27:45pm

re: #89 HappyWarrior

True that.

Well, I’m not sorry he is off the court. I can’t say I’m happy the way he left.

93
bratwurst  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:27:51pm
94
Billy Batts  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:28:23pm

I won’t be seeing any wingnuts on my mother’s side for a couple of months.

95
Aunty Entity Dragon  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:28:56pm

This also means public sector unions survive. Scalia was getting ready to crush them along with the conservative bloc.

96
Kragar  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:29:09pm
97
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:29:19pm

re: #92 I Stand With Planned Parenthood

Well, I’m not sorry he is off the court. I can’t say I’m happy the way he left.

I meant about how he totally disrespected the marriages of people like AED. I’m not happy he died but I understand why people myself included had no love for this man.

98
Dr Lizardo  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:29:31pm

re: #82 Joe Bacon

Obama nominates Biden to the Supreme Court and dares the Senate to reject him.

This is going to be so fucking delicious! Buy those popcorn and butter futures folks!

Oh, fuckin’-A, that would be something to see!

99
Domo Arigato Marco Roboto  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:29:34pm

re: #76 Aunty Entity Dragon

This is going to be biggest SCOTUS battle of the last hundred years ALL TIME.

Fixed.

100
I Stand With Planned Parenthood  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:29:52pm

re: #97 HappyWarrior

I meant about how he totally disrespected the marriages of people like AED. I’m not happy he died but I understand why people myself included had no love for this man.

Oh, I had no love for him either. Still have to admire the human he was

101
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:30:43pm

re: #100 I Stand With Planned Parenthood

Oh, I had no love for him either. Still have to admire the human he was

We’re on the same page.

102
stpaulbear  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:31:07pm

re: #52 I Stand With Planned Parenthood

Justice Scalia robed-up and showed-up. He worked to the best of his ability and according to his conscious.

We really can’t ask for anything more.

We could have asked for a little less other-phobia. I understand respecting the dead but I don’t think we need to whitewash what he brought to his work either.

103
PhillyPretzel  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:31:25pm

re: #98 Dr Lizardo

That could happen. Very interesting times indeed.

104
ObserverArt  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:31:29pm

I think it best to keep Scalia’s judgments out of the discussion for a few days. Besides, it no longer matters. He is gone.

Already moving on to how this is all going to play out for the future and for those that will live on through it. It begins tonight with the Republican debate.

105
Skip Intro  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:31:39pm

He made the world a better place when he left it.

106
Danack  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:32:32pm

I’ve got to say, whoever is writing the script for this election season is doing a great job.

107
Kragar  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:32:34pm

As a country, we’re better off without him on the Supreme Court

108
Charles Johnson  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:32:37pm
109
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:32:38pm

re: #98 Dr Lizardo

Oh, fuckin’-A, that would be something to see!

That’d be nuts but then Obama would have to get them to confirm a new VP heh.

110
Shiplord Kirel  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:32:55pm

re: #66 I Stand With Planned Parenthood

9? children, married over 50 years.

Yep, 9 children, married 54 years.
I am the oldest of 8 children. I don’t recommend large families but it can be a lot of fun when the swarms of grandchildren start coming along. My mother had 25 grandchildren when she died, ranging in age from 2 to 36 years.

111
EPR-radar  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:32:57pm

re: #91 Skip Intro

Right now the candidates for tonight’s debate are looking for the most far right, depraved wingnuts they can find to claim that’s who they’d appoint.

I wonder if any GOPer will have the nerve to mention John Yoo in this context.

112
I Stand With Planned Parenthood  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:33:04pm

I guess he and Ginsburg got along well.

He had a good sense of humor she appreciated.

If she can’t hate him, well… .

113
lawhawk  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:33:11pm

The President will get to pick whoever he damn well pleases.

The Senate’s job will be to confirm that choice - to see that the person is qualified to be on the Court. There are any number of Circuit Court of Appeals justices, District Court justices, or even State high court justices who would fit the bill.

I don’t see Obama picking someone like Harriet Miers (a GWB nomination that was withdrawn). He’d sooner pick Richard Posner out of Chicago (even though Posner’s repeatedly stated he doesn’t want to sit on the Court) than someone as unqualified as Miers.

If the GOP decides to run up the obstructionist flag (as they’re already signaling), the November election will be even more important, and every last person needs to get out and vote - both in the primaries and the general election to give Democrats the best chance in a generation to shift the Court’s balance in favor of the liberal wing.

It’s that important.

114
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:33:16pm

re: #108 Charles Johnson

[Embedded content]

What a fucking asshole. Already threatening to obstruct the President’s pick who he knows nothing about. Fuck yourself Ted.

115
Big Beautiful Door  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:33:18pm

re: #47 Snarknado!

In the meantime, how will this affect votes on currently pending cases?

4-4 ties mean the lower court is affirmed

116
Aunty Entity Dragon  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:33:22pm

re: #100 I Stand With Planned Parenthood

Oh, I had no love for him either. Still have to admire the human he was

I for one absolutely do not. He was certainly brilliant in his way, but he also did things that were intrinsically evil as well as damaging to our Republic. He was unprincipled, misanthropic and reveled in despising many of his countrymen and courted their disdain in return.

117
Kragar  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:34:09pm

re: #108 Charles Johnson

118
Aunty Entity Dragon  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:34:47pm

re: #113 lawhawk

Loomis at Lawyers, Guns & Money betting that the Senate will sit on all nominations until after the next POTUS is sworn in.

119
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:34:50pm

re: #110 Shiplord Kirel

Yep, 9 children, married 54 years.
I am the oldest of 8 children. I don’t recommend large families but it can be a lot of fun when the swarms of grandchildren start coming along. My mother had 25 grandchildren when she died, ranging in age from 2 to 36 years.

My dad’s the youngest of six so I have a lot of cousins. We got your mother beat though. When my Nana died, her youngest grandchild was three and her oldest was forty five. Just some good natured ribbing, I know it’s not a contest.

120
Pawn of the Oppressor  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:35:07pm

re: #114 HappyWarrior

What a fucking asshole. Already threatening to obstruct the President’s pick who he knows nothing about. Fuck yourself Ted.

He is Evil.

121
bratwurst  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:35:44pm

I actually know someone who used to live fairly close to Justice Scalia, considered him to be a genuine good guy.

There is also the fact that Justice Ginsburg was a close personal friend.

We can all disagree with this man’s decisions and writings today and every day, but I also reject assholery like this:

Whether we liked him or not, a giant has left this mortal coil.

122
EPR-radar  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:35:57pm

re: #118 Aunty Entity Dragon

Loomis at Lawyers, Guns & Money betting that the Senate will sit on all nominations until after the next POTUS is sworn in.

I also see this as pretty likely. Since when does the GOP care about the kind of trouble an extended SCOTUS vacancy will cause?

123
I Stand With Planned Parenthood  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:36:06pm

re: #119 HappyWarrior

My dad’s the youngest of six so I have a lot of cousins. We got your mother beat though. When my Nana died, her youngest grandchild was three and her oldest was forty five. Just some good natured ribbing, I know it’s not a contest.

I’m an only child with an only child.

I don’t understand large families.

124
PhillyPretzel  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:36:11pm

I just checked WHYY’s local news service and they are linking to San Antonio’s newspaper. newsworks.org

125
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:36:27pm

re: #120 Pawn of the Oppressor

He is Evil.

He manages to stand out as an asshole in a party filled with them. That’s a great skill. Someone I saw posted what Iggy Pop wrote on Ted’s Facebook wall and it was just so brilliant because it nails how big of a dick this scumbuckett really is.

126
ObserverArt  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:36:42pm

re: #114 HappyWarrior

What a fucking asshole. Already threatening to obstruct the President’s pick who he knows nothing about. Fuck yourself Ted.

That’s Texas Ted. Expect nothing and get even less.

127
I Stand With Planned Parenthood  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:37:07pm

John Roberts statement is out, I guess.

128
EmmaAnne  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:37:43pm

I am going to predict that Obama does nominate someone in short order and that the Senate either confirms that person or his second nominee. Supreme Court justices are different - everyone notices obstructionism and everyone sees why you need all nine justices.

I’ve been too optimistic before though.

129
Kragar  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:37:52pm

re: #125 HappyWarrior

He manages to stand out as an asshole in a party filled with them. That’s a great skill. Someone I saw posted what Iggy Pop wrote on Ted’s Facebook wall and it was just so brilliant because it nails how big of a dick this scumbuckett really is.

Got a link to that?

130
EPR-radar  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:38:01pm

re: #126 ObserverArt

That’s Texas Ted. Expect nothing and get even less.

Well, it all depends on what you’re expecting. If you expect Ted Cruz to be such an enormous asshole that time is slowed and light trapped nearby, then you won’t be disappointed.

131
Decatur Deb  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:38:07pm

re: #82 Joe Bacon

Obama nominates Biden to the Supreme Court and dares the Senate to reject him.

This is going to be so fucking delicious! Buy those popcorn and butter futures folks!

That would be a Big Fuckn’ Deal.

Is he even a lawyer?

132
Joe Bacon  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:38:35pm

re: #95 Aunty Entity Dragon

This also means public sector unions survive. Scalia was getting ready to crush them along with the conservative bloc.

Which is why I cannot shed any tears for him. He and his four pals on the Court were getting ready to fuck me and my fellow government workers with no K-Y.

133
Skip Intro  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:38:42pm

re: #121 bratwurst

A “giant”? Really? Scalia?

Will we be saying the same about Ted Cruz?

134
I Stand With Planned Parenthood  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:38:52pm

re: #102 stpaulbear

We could have asked for a little less other-phobia. I understand respecting the dead but I don’t think we need to whitewash what he brought to his work either.

I’d ask for a lot of things. Mostly I’m glad we have people willing to serve to the best of their ability in all avenues of public service.

They are doing work I can’t.

135
Joe Bacon  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:39:43pm

re: #134 I Stand With Planned Parenthood

I’d ask for a lot of things. Mostly I’m glad we have people willing to serve to the best of their ability in all avenues of public service.

They are doing work I can’t.

Thank you. Bless your heart!

136
Aunty Entity Dragon  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:39:54pm

re: #121 bratwurst

I actually know someone who used to live fairly close to Justice Scalia, considered him to be a genuine good guy.

There is also the fact that Justice Ginsburg was a close personal friend.

We can all disagree with this man’s decisions and writings today and every day, but I also reject assholery like this:

[Embedded content]

I understand where you are coming from…but Scalia wrote the horrific dissent to the Lawrence V Texas case and openly held GLBT people to be beneath the law. He was my enemy in a very real way. If it was up to him, I would be in jail and my child would be in foster care. I do not and will not forgive what he has tried to do to families like mine, and I will not speak well of him to assuage the feelings of others.

137
PhillyPretzel  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:40:18pm

re: #131 Decatur Deb

Yes he is. en.wikipedia.org

138
Big Beautiful Door  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:40:24pm

re: #108 Charles Johnson

[Embedded content]

Surprise, Cruz already calling for obstruction.

139
BeachDem  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:40:25pm

And another asshole heard from

140
No Depression  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:40:35pm

re: #128 EmmaAnne

I am going to predict that Obama does nominate someone in short order and that the Senate either confirms that person or his second nominee. Supreme Court justices are different - everyone notices obstructionism and everyone sees why you need all nine justices.

I’ve been too optimistic before though.

The GOP has repeatedly shown it doesn’t give a shit about governing responsibly. I certainly don’t expect them to now.

141
Tigger2  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:40:36pm

re: #108 Charles Johnson

[Embedded content]

142
EPR-radar  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:41:10pm

re: #134 I Stand With Planned Parenthood

I’d ask for a lot of things. Mostly I’m glad we have people willing to serve to the best of their ability in all avenues of public service.

They are doing work I can’t.

I really do have a problem with defining the work of Scalia as being “public service” merely because of his job title. That same line of reasoning fails even more spectacularly when applied to people like Gov. Snyder, who is a perfect counter-example.

143
bratwurst  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:41:28pm

re: #133 Skip Intro

A “giant”? Really? Scalia?

Will we be saying the same about Ted Cruz?

In the (awful to imagine!) scenario that Ted Cruz is able to impact the laws of the United States for 30 years? Absolutely.

144
wrenchwench  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:41:48pm

Too much, too soon? Oh, well.

145
EPR-radar  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:42:19pm

re: #136 Aunty Entity Dragon

I understand where you are coming from…but Scalia wrote the horrific dissent to the Lawrence V Texas case and openly held GLBT people to be beneath the law. He was my enemy in a very real way. If it was up to him, I would be in jail and my child would be in foster care. I do not and will not forgive what he has tried to do to families like mine, and I will not speak well of him to assuage the feelings of others.

The best I can do is refrain from celebrating his death. I will never whitewash or mute my opinion of his odious body of work as a supreme court justice.

146
I Stand With Planned Parenthood  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:42:44pm

re: #136 Aunty Entity Dragon

I understand where you are coming from…but Scalia wrote the horrific dissent to the Lawrence V Texas case and openly held GLBT people to be beneath the law. He was my enemy in a very real way. If it was up to him, I would be in jail and my child would be in foster care. I do not and will not forgive what he has tried to do to families like mine, and I will not speak well of him to assuage the feelings of others.

Luckily, the majority of the younger generation doesn’t share his viewpoints.

147
ObserverArt  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:43:08pm

re: #130 EPR-radar

Well, it all depends on what you’re expecting. If you expect Ted Cruz to be such an enormous asshole that time is slowed and light trapped nearby, then you won’t be disappointed.

…and he can still surprise beyond that and take it even lower. That is the Ted I don’t wanna know.

148
freetoken  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:43:41pm

Certainly this will compete with the machete murder for getting the most attention tonight at the debate.

149
bratwurst  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:44:23pm

re: #145 EPR-radar

The best I can do is refrain from celebrating his death. I will never whitewash or mute my opinion of his odious body of work as a supreme court justice.

This is exactly where I am at. I just think it is petty not to acknowledge that he was a major figure on the American stage for 30 years.

150
lawhawk  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:44:30pm

re: #118 Aunty Entity Dragon

GOP obstructing for the sake of obstructing. Completely figures. They don’t realize that if they lose in November, it’s going to be a sea change, and they can’t block all the seats and all the positions.

But they’ll try - and in the meantime, every single Democrat running has to make that the entire ballgame for November. It’s going to be about Court nominations. And the GOP obstructionism blocking the confirmation only highlights that the GOP is the Party of No.

And the party leaders have to know that this is not a good place to be (or they should know this). They could attempt to delay, but if Obama picks someone Jacqueline Nguyen out of the 9th Circuit or Sri Srinivasan out of the DC Court or even former/current Senator or Governor, you’ve got an interesting battle.

Say Obama nominates Elizabeth Warren. It would put the Senate GOP in bad position denying a fair hearing to one of their own. Cruz wouldn’t care - he’d vote against whoever Obama nominates. He doesn’t care. His mind is already made up. But the rest might give her a fair hearing.

151
I Stand With Planned Parenthood  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:44:32pm

re: #148 freetoken

Certainly this will compete with the machete murder for getting the most attention tonight at the debate.

What is the deal with machetes?

152
Ziggy_TARDIS  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:45:06pm
153
Big Beautiful Door  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:45:35pm

re: #148 freetoken

Certainly this will compete with the machete murder for getting the most attention tonight at the debate.

My prediction is that at least four candidates will urge the Senate to block whoever the President nominates.

154
ObserverArt  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:45:42pm

re: #134 I Stand With Planned Parenthood

I’d ask for a lot of things. Mostly I’m glad we have people willing to serve to the best of their ability in all avenues of public service.

They are doing work I can’t.

In time I’d love to discuss that ‘best of his ability’ part. Not now.

155
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:46:47pm

I’m seeing the media’s already talking like the nomination won’t happen. Yeah and that’s where you call out the GOP for being obstructionist assholes.

156
lawhawk  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:46:48pm

re: #131 Decatur Deb

Technically, you don’t need to be a lawyer to be on the Supreme Court. In practice, you’ve got to be a lawyer, and frequently a justice at one of the Circuit Court of Appeals to have a good chance of success at the nomination process.

But Biden did go to law school and was admitted to the DE Bar.

157
Tigger2  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:46:48pm
158
stpaulbear  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:46:59pm

I hope that in the debate tonight, they all start bragging about all the shit they’re going to do/undo when they get to set the agenda for the supreme court.

159
EPR-radar  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:47:09pm

re: #150 lawhawk

It seems unreasonably optimistic to assume the GOP will give any Obama nominee a fair hearing, much less Elizabeth Warren who is in all the top-ten hate lists of wingnuts that are capable of counting that high.

160
freetoken  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:47:30pm

re: #151 I Stand With Planned Parenthood

What is the deal with machetes?

Murder in Ohio.

161
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:47:42pm

re: #157 Tigger2

[Embedded content]

Obama could appoint someone who calls Scalia a mentor and Bryan would object because Obama made the nomination. Thanks again Bry for showing what a fucking shit goblin you are.

162
Domo Arigato Marco Roboto  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:47:44pm

And as was expected by pretty much anyone, the lunatics wackos human beings individuals over at Breitbart are handling this development in their usual manner.

Refuse to link to that den of scum and villainy as a matter of principle, the main page article is about as bad as you can imagine…

163
Charles Johnson  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:47:45pm
164
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:48:39pm

re: #163 Charles Johnson

[Embedded content]

Hey Jim, why don’t you look at where right wingers were when Teddy Kennedy died, you hypocritical fucker.

165
I Stand With Planned Parenthood  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:49:19pm

re: #160 freetoken

Murder in Ohio.

I know.

Machetes murders are not uncommon. I think it’s strange because it is not a tool that is used in this country.

Hammer Murders would make more sense to me.

166
Targetpractice  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:49:59pm

re: #164 HappyWarrior

Hey Jim, why don’t you look at where right wingers were when Teddy Kennedy died, you hypocritical fucker.

No shit, they were dancing in the streets when Ted fell ill, and positively orgasmic when he passed on. I’ll observe a 24 hour period of decency for the family’s sake, but after that I don’t give much of a fuck how much it hurt’s a wingnuts feelings to speak my mind about Scalia.

167
Aunty Entity Dragon  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:50:00pm

Oh fer fucks sake:

Rod Dreher just found out about Scalia and he is terrified the ghey and tranny hordes are coming to take his liberty as always:

First, gut reaction: I have not been as unsettled about the future of the country since 9/11.

You read that correctly. Chief Inquisitor Scalia was the only thing standing between Rod and that fabulous couple who wanted a damned cake for their wedding.

168
Belafon  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:50:21pm

Obama nominates someone and gets blocked. The Clinton nominates Obama.

169
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:50:25pm

re: #165 I Stand With Planned Parenthood

I know.

Machetes murders are not uncommon. I think it’s strange because it is not a tool that is used in this country.

Hammer Murders would make more sense to me.

A machete murder i’d say is about making a statement. A hammer just seems like that was the closest thing in proximity. Know nothing about this actual murder so I don’t know what to say other than that.

170
Skip Intro  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:50:41pm

Obama resigns. President Biden appoints him to the Supreme Court.

Hey, why not? It’s already been a wild year.

171
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:50:54pm

re: #166 Targetpractice

No shit, they were dancing in the streets when Ted fell ill, and positively orgasmic when he passed on. I’ll observe a 24 hour period of decency for the family’s sake, but after that I don’t give much of a fuck how much it hurt’s a wingnuts feelings to speak my mind about Scalia.

Exactly.

172
I Stand With Planned Parenthood  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:50:57pm

re: #169 HappyWarrior

A machete murder i’d say is about making a statement. A hammer just seems like that was the closest thing in proximity. Know nothing about this actual murder so I don’t know what to say other than that.

Where does one even buy a machete?

173
ObserverArt  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:51:10pm

re: #148 freetoken

Certainly this will compete with the machete murder for getting the most attention tonight at the debate.

No one was murdered, just bad injuries. The suspected “terrorist” was killed by the police though.

174
PhillyPretzel  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:51:14pm

re: #170 Skip Intro

That would work too.

175
Aunty Entity Dragon  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:51:42pm

re: #172 I Stand With Planned Parenthood

Where does one even buy a machete?

Freight Harbor tools, sometimes a surplus store.

176
lawhawk  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:51:46pm
177
I Stand With Planned Parenthood  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:52:07pm

re: #174 PhillyPretzel

That would work too.

He is certainly qualified.

178
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:52:14pm

re: #170 Skip Intro

Obama resigns. President Biden appoints him to the Supreme Court.

Hey, why not? It’s already been a wild year.

Needs to go younger. The replacement should be someone we can say we can expect to be there in 25-30 years which is exactly what Reagan had in mind with Scalia.

179
Joe Bacon  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:52:21pm

re: #150 lawhawk

GOP obstructing for the sake of obstructing. Completely figures. They don’t realize that if they lose in November, it’s going to be a sea change, and they can’t block all the seats and all the positions.

But they’ll try - and in the meantime, every single Democrat running has to make that the entire ballgame for November. It’s going to be about Court nominations. And the GOP obstructionism blocking the confirmation only highlights that the GOP is the Party of No.

And the party leaders have to know that this is not a good place to be (or they should know this). They could attempt to delay, but if Obama picks someone Jacqueline Nguyen out of the 9th Circuit or Sri Srinivasan out of the DC Court or even former/current Senator or Governor, you’ve got an interesting battle.

Say Obama nominates Elizabeth Warren. It would put the Senate GOP in bad position denying a fair hearing to one of their own. Cruz wouldn’t care - he’d vote against whoever Obama nominates. He doesn’t care. His mind is already made up. But the rest might give her a fair hearing.

Just the thought of Obama nominating Warren is an 11 on the political Richter scale!

180
I Stand With Planned Parenthood  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:52:27pm

have to feed the beasts.

bbl

181
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:52:29pm

re: #172 I Stand With Planned Parenthood

Where does one even buy a machete?

No idea.

182
freetoken  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:52:32pm

re: #173 ObserverArt

No one was murdered, just bad injuries. The suspected “terrorist” was killed by the police though.

I thought one of the victims died, no? Well, if not, it’s still going to be grist for the anti-immigrant, anti-Muslim machine.

183
Domo Arigato Marco Roboto  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:52:51pm

re: #168 Belafon

Obama nominates someone and gets blocked. The Clinton nominates Obama.

Clinton would then be facing mass murder charges, as the announcement results in at least a few hundred thousand immediate and fatal heart attacks among the RWNJs … /

184
Shiplord Kirel  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:53:00pm

Freeper conspiraloons have bestirred themselves and started to fling feces:

“Scalia is the man who started the investigation into Hillary.”

“If that’s true, it’s yet another suspicious death associated with Hillary and Bill.

Prayers for his family, he was a very good man.”

“NATURAL CAUSES, MY FAT FOOT.”

“If I were his family, I would ask for a full autopsy… in another country.”

“Poison.”

“That’s what I’m thinking. Like in Russia.

185
PhillyPretzel  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:53:17pm

re: #172 I Stand With Planned Parenthood

Cabela’s has them. cabelas.com

186
wrenchwench  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:53:35pm

re: #165 I Stand With Planned Parenthood

I know.

Machetes murders are not uncommon. I think it’s strange because it is not a tool that is used in this country.

In your neighborhood.

187
Tigger2  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:53:56pm

re: #184 Shiplord Kirel

Freeper conspiraloons have bestirred themselves and started to fling feces:

LOL so predictable.

188
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:54:11pm

re: #184 Shiplord Kirel

Freeper conspiraloons have bestirred themselves and started to fling feces:

Why would Obama have Scalia killed when his opposition controls the Senate? God these guys have no idea how a devious mastermind works.

189
PhillyPretzel  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:54:27pm

re: #181 HappyWarrior

Cabela’s has them. cabelas.com

190
TedStriker  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:54:36pm

Ideological and policy differences aside, my condolences to Scalia’s family and to his colleagues.

Talking about a replacement can come later; let’s not be like the Republicans, looking for any political advantage wherever we can get it, by hook or crook.

191
nines09  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:54:44pm

re: #172 I Stand With Planned Parenthood

Where does one even buy a machete?

Uh, everywhere…

192
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:54:55pm

re: #189 PhillyPretzel

Cabela’s has them. cabelas.com

Ah ok.

193
Sionainn  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:55:10pm

re: #149 bratwurst

This is exactly where I am at. I just think it is petty not to acknowledge that he was a major figure on the American stage for 30 years.

I acknowledge that he was a major figure for 30 years who did incredible damage to the country.

194
Shiplord Kirel  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:55:10pm

re: #172 I Stand With Planned Parenthood

Where does one even buy a machete?

Wal-Mart has you covered.

195
Testy Toad T  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:55:14pm

re: #168 Belafon

Obama nominates someone and gets blocked. The Clinton nominates Obama.

Unfortunately, Obama would probably have to recuse himself on a shitload of upcoming cases, at least for the next decade or so.

196
Skip Intro  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:55:30pm

If, by some miracle, a Dem gets elected president and the Dems take over the Senate, all of the people demanding that we wait until after the election will do a 180 and demand that the old Senate be allowed to vote on the candidate.

These people are beyond shame.

197
nines09  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:55:36pm

My condolences. “BARKEEP!”

198
PhillyPretzel  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:55:50pm

re: #194 Shiplord Kirel

Good to know. /half

199
ObserverArt  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:55:50pm

re: #182 freetoken

I thought one of the victims died, no? Well, if not, it’s still going to be grist for the anti-immigrant, anti-Muslim machine.

No, the guy that was critical has been upgraded. I think two are released leaving two still in the hospital.

200
Barefoot Grin  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:56:28pm

re: #193 Sionainn

I acknowledge that he was a major figure for 30 years who did incredible damage to the country.

That’s where rigid originalism will take one.

201
Charles Johnson  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:56:33pm

This debate tonight will be even more unwatchable than usual, with all the Republicans heaping praise on Scalia.

202
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:56:39pm

re: #195 Testy Toad T

Unfortunately, Obama would probably have to recuse himself on a shitload of upcoming cases, at least for the next decade or so.

That’s why Obama should not be picked. It’s too bad though. He’s got a brilliant legal mind and would be an asset to the court. No idea where he goes with this. Has he put out a statement yet? I’m sure the usual suspects will find something to gripe about in it.

203
Aunty Entity Dragon  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:56:40pm
204
Skip Intro  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:56:59pm

re: #187 Tigger2

LOL so predictable.

It’s so obvious that it would happen in RWNJ Texas at the ranch of a RWNJ rancher.

Obama has his operatives everywhere.

205
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:57:25pm

re: #201 Charles Johnson

This debate tonight will be even more unwatchable than usual, with all the Republicans heaping praise on Scalia.

It was bad enough hearing that this guy was what their model Supreme Court justice was.

206
freetoken  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:57:39pm

re: #199 ObserverArt

No, the guy that was critical has been upgraded. I think two are released leaving two still in the hospital.

Ok, thanks.

207
steve_davis  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:57:54pm

Any word on whether or not Clarence Thomas is still going to be buried alive in Scalia’s tomb? A good batman is still useful, even in whatever afterlife Scalia will be in.

208
ObserverArt  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:57:56pm

re: #194 Shiplord Kirel

Wal-Mart has you covered.

I think some here in Columbus thought the guy went across the street to a Home Depot or Lowes. Maybe they carry them in gardening tools to chop small brush. I don’t know, just one of the local reports.

209
Domo Arigato Marco Roboto  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:58:00pm

Cripes, something big exploded nearby (boom heard and felt)…

210
PhillyPretzel  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:58:05pm

re: #201 Charles Johnson

Amazon has some good movies. amazon.com

211
Aunty Entity Dragon  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:58:17pm
212
SteveMcGaziBolaGate RN  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:58:34pm

re: #146 I Stand With Planned Parenthood

Luckily, the majority of the younger generation doesn’t share his viewpoints.

I’ve been saying that for forty years, and it still isn’t true.

213
Belafon  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:58:39pm
214
nines09  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:58:46pm

re: #201 Charles Johnson

At the end of the evening he will have been with the founders and on the moon all in one wonderful life devoted to the principle that money is the means and way and the light.

215
Ziggy_TARDIS  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:59:02pm

re: #195 Testy Toad T

He could run against the Republican Senator of Illinois.

J.Q. Adams did that in the House way back in the 1800’s.

216
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:59:31pm

re: #211 Aunty Entity Dragon

[Embedded content]

Again these people really need to look at all the right wingers who were damning Ted Kennedy to hell or the gleeful reactions when Jimmy Carter got diagnosed with cancer. I believe the classy Ben Shapiro of Breitbrat said a cancer got cancer when that happened.

217
EPR-radar  Feb 13, 2016 • 2:59:54pm

re: #207 steve_davis

Any word on whether or not Clarence Thomas is still going to be buried alive in Scalia’s tomb? A good batman is still useful, even in whatever afterlife Scalia will be in.

Thomas attempting to communicate with Scalia via Ouija board to decide how to vote would make a great political cartoon.

218
stpaulbear  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:00:09pm

re: #202 HappyWarrior

That’s why Obama should not be picked. It’s too bad though. He’s got a brilliant legal mind and would be an asset to the court. No idea where he goes with this. Has he put out a statement yet? I’m sure the usual suspects will find something to gripe about in it.

He’s already said he doesn’t want the job. He said he’d rather go back to teaching if he can.

219
SteveMcGaziBolaGate RN  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:00:14pm

re: #172 I Stand With Planned Parenthood

Where does one even buy a machete?

Where else?

amazon.com

220
BeachDem  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:00:32pm

re: #150 lawhawk

GOP obstructing for the sake of obstructing. Completely figures. They don’t realize that if they lose in November, it’s going to be a sea change, and they can’t block all the seats and all the positions.

But they’ll try - and in the meantime, every single Democrat running has to make that the entire ballgame for November. It’s going to be about Court nominations. And the GOP obstructionism blocking the confirmation only highlights that the GOP is the Party of No.

And the party leaders have to know that this is not a good place to be (or they should know this). They could attempt to delay, but if Obama picks someone Jacqueline Nguyen out of the 9th Circuit or Sri Srinivasan out of the DC Court or even former/current Senator or Governor, you’ve got an interesting battle.

Say Obama nominates Elizabeth Warren. It would put the Senate GOP in bad position denying a fair hearing to one of their own. Cruz wouldn’t care - he’d vote against whoever Obama nominates. He doesn’t care. His mind is already made up. But the rest might give her a fair hearing.

One of the few things I admire about Lindsey Graham is that he has always spoken up for a fair hearing

I’m going to vote for her [Kagan] because I believe this election has consequences. And this president chose someone who is qualified to serve on this court and understands the difference between being a liberal judge and a politician. At the end of the day, it wasn’t a hard decision… She would not have been someone I would have chosen, but the person who did choose, President Obama, chose wisely.

Of course, he later said he thinks Trey Gowdy would be an excellent Supreme. Sigh.

221
Aunty Entity Dragon  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:00:41pm
222
sagehen  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:00:52pm

re: #113 lawhawk

I don’t see Obama picking someone like Harriet Miers (a GWB nomination that was withdrawn). He’d sooner pick Richard Posner out of Chicago (even though Posner’s repeatedly stated he doesn’t want to sit on the Court) than someone as unqualified as Miers.

Posner was the first name I thought of when I heard this.

The most-cited, most respected appellate court judge of the 20th century, *nobody* would dare call him unqualified. Used to be considered conservative, although he’s not so right-wing on the social issues. It’d be hard for anybody to say no.

Plus he’s 77 already, so he wouldn’t be there long.

223
Reality Based Steve  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:01:06pm

re: #184 Shiplord Kirel

Freeper conspiraloons have bestirred themselves and started to fling feces:

I hadn’t scrolled down to your post yet, but I was already thinking along the same lines…. that it would only be a matter of minutes before the Conspira-birds were circling like the vultures they are.

RBS

224
lawhawk  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:01:15pm

re: #201 Charles Johnson

Rubio will need to go ctrl-alt-delete to reboot again after the latest software upgrade doesn’t include the Scalia patch.

Cruz will obstruct. It’s all he knows how to do.

Trump will claim he’d pick the best nomination for the position, but couldn’t express a judicial philosophy of said nomination.

Kasich might give an actual answer that makes sense.

And Christie will be throwing things at the TV because that could have been him up there.

225
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:01:16pm

re: #215 Ziggy_TARDIS

He could run against the Republican Senator of Illinois.

J.Q. Adams did that in the House way back in the 1800’s.

Tammy Duckworth is doing that. I think the President is going to be perfectly content to enjoy his retirement. Andrew Johnson is the other President who went back to Congress after the Presidency. And of course Taft to the Supreme Court but the others just enjoyed retirement which is whatI expect Obama to do. He’ll dind some pet cause, not sure what but he’ll find it.

226
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:02:11pm

re: #218 stpaulbear

He’s already said he doesn’t want the job. He said he’d rather go back to teaching if he can.

Yeah I don’t think he seriously would want it anyhow. I think he does go back to teaching and probably finds some cause that he works hard on.

227
Reality Based Steve  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:02:26pm

re: #204 Skip Intro

It’s so obvious that it would happen in RWNJ Texas at the ranch of a RWNJ rancher.

Obama has his operatives everywhere.

Who do you think SPECTRE modeled their org chart from?

RBS

228
Belafon  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:02:32pm

In the cool video department:

The Chemical Brothers - Wide Open ft. Beck

229
Domo Arigato Marco Roboto  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:02:35pm

Firefighters and ambulances not far, starting to look like the gas tank/piping for one of the apartment buildings not far from here exploded. Hope there aren’t many casualties…

230
Kragar  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:03:18pm
231
Aunty Entity Dragon  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:03:31pm

re: #229 Domo Arigato Marco Roboto

Firefighters and ambulances not far, starting to look like the gas tank/piping for one of the apartment buildings not far from here exploded. Hope there aren’t many casualties…

Ay yi yi. You have to be so damned careful digging around NG lines.

232
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:04:00pm

re: #230 Kragar

[Embedded content]

He really needs to get his show on FX. Good network. Think about it big fella.

233
ObserverArt  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:04:11pm

Did a Google and sure enough you can buy a machete at Home Depot.

Search result at homedepot. com: Machetes at Home Depot

234
Skip Intro  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:04:17pm

I think you all have convinced me not to get anywhere near a tv tonight. I’ll be looking forward to your reporting of the comparisons of Scalia to Jesus Christ tonight.

235
Reality Based Steve  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:04:43pm

re: #225 HappyWarrior

Tammy Duckworth is doing that. I think the President is going to be perfectly content to enjoy his retirement. Andrew Johnson is the other President who went back to Congress after the Presidency. And of course Taft to the Supreme Court but the others just enjoyed retirement which is whatI expect Obama to do. He’ll dind some pet cause, not sure what but he’ll find it.

I wouldn’t be surprised if he did join with “The Elders”.

RBS

236
goddamnedfrank  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:06:19pm

My prediction is that even if the Senate Republicans block Obama’s nominee to the Court the damage is already done, because the one consistent thing about Justice Kennedy’s psychology is that he likes being on the winning side. He loved being the one who decided which way the Court would rule and I just don’t think that steering cases into deadlock will have the same appeal to him. With Scalia gone he’s going to start looking more and more to his own legacy, and will probably begin siding much more consistently with SCOTUS’s liberal faction.

In other words while Conservatives are politicizing Scalia’s death before his body is even in the ground, advocating to erect an iron curtain of obstruction around the confirmation process, that effort will prove to be futile at best.

237
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:06:42pm

re: #235 Reality Based Steve

I wouldn’t be surprised if he didn’t join with “The Elders”.

RBS

Sounds like a great cause. He’ll also be the newest member of this fine group.

238
Targetpractice  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:06:46pm

re: #224 lawhawk

Rubio will need to go ctrl-alt-delete to reboot again after the latest software upgrade doesn’t include the Scalia patch.

Cruz will obstruct. It’s all he knows how to do.

Trump will claim he’d pick the best nomination for the position, but couldn’t express a judicial philosophy of said nomination.

Kasich might give an actual answer that makes sense.

And Christie will be throwing things at the TV because that could have been him up there.

Nah, to a man I think they’ll all mutter something to the effect of “I’d nominate a guy just like Scalia to his seat and make Democrats shine his shoes for life.”

239
Skip Intro  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:07:09pm

My suggestion for Obama: Justice Jacqueline Nguyen of the 9th Circuit.

240
lawhawk  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:08:03pm

re: #220 BeachDem

There are veteran Senators who know the business of the Senate, and that their job isn’t to prevent a nomination of a qualified candidate. It’s to keep unqualified candidates, even if you disagree with their judicial philosophy.

It’s why I thought Scalia, Sotomayor, Roberts, and RBG were good picks. They understood the law as well as anyone and were confirmed accordingly. Thomas? Not so much, but the Senate did confirm him too. Biers? She couldn’t even make it that far due to being completely unqualified to be in consideration.

The choice of the nomination will be very interesting - picking a Circuit Court justice means they’ve been through the process before, or someone who was an AG or other position requiring confirmation by the Senate, as opposed to say someone from a State Supreme Court.

241
Jack Burton  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:08:43pm

Up until now we’ve had: 4 conservatives, 4 liberals, and 1 swing vote (not really a “conservative stranglehold” but whatever).

Can we start working toward getting 9 swing votes please? Is this too much to ask for?

We shouldn’t know how they are all going to vote on something before they even hear the case. Basically Justice Kennedy is the only person deciding anything right now.

242
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:09:00pm

re: #239 Skip Intro

My suggestion for Obama: Justice Jacqueline Nguyen of the 9th Circuit.

Fascinating life story. I’m sure he’ll make a great pick. I was commenting the other day that Sotomayor and Kagan have both been terrific.

243
Charles Johnson  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:09:07pm
244
Skip Intro  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:09:48pm

re: #243 Charles Johnson

Leave it to Fox.

245
Brian J.  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:09:54pm

re: #179 Joe Bacon

Just the thought of Obama nominating Warren is an 11 on the political Richter scale!

Keep in mind that Massachusetts has a Republican governor in Charlie Baker. That’s one more Republican senator until November (or if she has to wait to be nominated by Hillary, until 2018.)

246
Decatur Deb  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:10:27pm

re: #165 I Stand With Planned Parenthood

I know.

Machetes murders are not uncommon. I think it’s strange because it is not a tool that is used in this country.

Hammer Murders would make more sense to me.

Keyboard Killers.

247
PhillyPretzel  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:10:31pm

re: #243 Charles Johnson

Isn’t Roberts the Chief Justice? I thought he was.

248
Nojay UK  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:10:31pm

re: #225 HappyWarrior

I think the President is going to be perfectly content to enjoy his retirement.

My thinking for President Obama’s “retirement” would be for him to run for Governor of Hawaii. Home turf advantage, previous executive experience, photogenic family, I don’t see him losing the election.

249
BeachDem  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:10:57pm

re: #224 lawhawk

Kasich might give an actual answer that makes sense.

Go ahead, Johnny, mention Mike DeWine—I double dog dare ya!!

/

250
Domo Arigato Marco Roboto  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:11:19pm

Didn’t Al Gore study/practic law? Now THERE’S a nomination that would truly terrify the RWNJs…

251
Brian J.  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:11:32pm

re: #247 PhillyPretzel

Isn’t Roberts the Chief Justice? I thought he was.

Yep. Scalia was the senior justice. Not that either of those really mean anything.

252
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:11:33pm

re: #248 Nojay UK

My thinking for President Obama’s “retirement” would be for him to run for Governor of Hawaii. Home turf advantage, previous executive experience, photogenic family, I don’t see him losing the election.

Maybe but most presidents stay retired. Only a handful have ran for office after leaving the Presidency. He’d definitely be the favorite though.

253
Reckless Disregard  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:11:39pm

re: #248 Nojay UK

Plus he can finally stop Orly Taitz from getting to his birth certificate.

254
Testy Toad T  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:12:40pm

re: #252 HappyWarrior

Maybe but most presidents stay retired. Only a handful have ran for office after leaving the Presidency. He’d definitely be the favorite though.

He’s a lot younger and/or less universally panned than most of our recent ex-Presidents.

I don’t think a lot of the trends really apply, but YMMV. Not like Reagan was going to do much after he wandered away.

255
goddamnedfrank  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:12:53pm

re: #241 Jack Burton

Up until now we’ve had: 4 conservatives, 4 liberals, and 1 swing vote (not really a “conservative stranglehold” but whatever).

Can we start working toward getting 9 swing votes please? Is this too much to ask for?

We shouldn’t know how they are all going to vote on something before they even hear the case. Basically Justice Kennedy is the only person deciding anything right now.

Mostly but not entirely. Roberts decided the ACA. That really pissed Kennedy off because as I said he likes to think of himself as the decider.

The thing about Scalia is that he was the only conservative Justice who was actually respected by anyone. Some people pay lip service to Thomas but that’s only because they feel they need to, deep down nobody thinks he or Alito are even halfway intelligent. We may actually see both Roberts and Kennedy move palpably to the left now that Scalia’s influence on them has been removed.

256
Belafon  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:13:05pm

re: #241 Jack Burton

Up until now we’ve had: 4 conservatives, 4 liberals, and 1 swing vote (not really a “conservative stranglehold” but whatever).

Can we start working toward getting 9 swing votes please? Is this too much to ask for?

We shouldn’t know how they are all going to vote on something before they even hear the case. Basically Justice Kennedy is the only person deciding anything right now.

I like your universe. Totally unworkable, but nice.

Actually, we pretty much know how Kennedy will vote: Strict conservative on anything but gay rights. That doesn’t make him a swing voter.

257
Skip Intro  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:13:06pm

re: #253 Reckless Disregard

Plus he can finally stop Orly Taitz from getting to his birth certificate.

Speaking of Orly, she has some advice for the GOP (stop me if you’ve heard this one before).

Terrible news. I hope GOP senate drags the confirmation of the next judge until January 21, 2017 when Trump becomes the next president.

258
Whack-A-Mole  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:13:13pm

Sad as it is, I don’t see the GOP allowing someone to be confirmed to the position. It’s just not going to happen. This is too good of a GOTV issue for them. They will be able to mobilize all of their terrified regressive legions with the prospect of a liberal being appointed.

Even sadder is that the idea of another Scalia being appointed won’t likewise motivate liberals to get off their *** and go to the polls.

259
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:13:21pm

re: #250 Domo Arigato Marco Roboto

Didn’t Al Gore study/practic law? Now THERE’S a nomination that would terrify the RWNJs…

Yeah Gore’s a lawyer by training. You don’t have to be a lawyer to get appointed though but knowing Obama he certainly will appoint someone who is and I think another safe bet is it won’t be a current office holder. Here’s a name though of a former office holder. Deval Patrick.

260
ObserverArt  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:13:23pm

re: #241 Jack Burton

Up until now we’ve had: 4 conservatives, 4 liberals, and 1 swing vote (not really a “conservative stranglehold” but whatever).

Can we start working toward getting 9 swing votes please? Is this too much to ask for?

We shouldn’t know how they are all going to vote on something before they even hear the case. Basically Justice Kennedy is the only person deciding anything right now.

Well, I was always naive enough to think that when you became a Supreme Court Justice you already had passed way beyond party thinking. It was just you and 8 others staring up at that big ol’ Constitution and letting the law come to you, not you bending it. But…

261
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:14:02pm

re: #254 Testy Toad T

He’s a lot younger and/or less universally panned than most of our recent ex-Presidents.

I don’t think a lot of the trends really apply, but YMMV. Not like Reagan was going to do much after he wandered away.

True I was going to concede that. I hope he’s happy in whatever he decides to do.

262
freetoken  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:14:47pm

re: #258 Whack-A-Mole

I agree, and it will be quite clear tonight that Cruz is going to jockey to be seen as the Head Obstructionist.

263
PhillyPretzel  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:14:51pm

re: #250 Domo Arigato Marco Roboto

Wiki bio: en.wikipedia.org

264
goddamnedfrank  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:15:09pm
265
Sionainn  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:15:12pm

re: #260 ObserverArt

Well, I was always naive enough to think that when you became a Supreme Court Justice you already had passed way beyond party thinking. It was just you and 8 others staring up at that big ol’ Constitution and letting the law come to you, not you bending it. But…

That’s the way it should be.

266
Aunty Entity Dragon  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:15:24pm

Seeing at LGM that the longest previous SCOTUS nomination process was 125 days. If the GOP wants to make this a year(s) long process…they will have to expect the same discourtesy in return withe the next Republican President, along with the stacks of 4/4 decisions that do nothing.

267
Charles Johnson  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:15:25pm
268
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:15:26pm

re: #260 ObserverArt

Well, I was always naive enough to think that when you became a Supreme Court Justice you already had passed way beyond party thinking. It was just you and 8 others staring up at that big ol’ Constitution and letting the law come to you, not you bending it. But…

You should read even though he’s an asshole, Bob Woodward’s The Brethren. it’s a fascinating look at the Burger Court and the inner workings of the court. Jeffrey Toobin’s The 9 I hear is another good one.

269
Joe Bacon  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:15:31pm

re: #202 HappyWarrior

That’s why Obama should not be picked. It’s too bad though. He’s got a brilliant legal mind and would be an asset to the court. No idea where he goes with this. Has he put out a statement yet? I’m sure the usual suspects will find something to gripe about in it.

Why would he recuse himself? Thomas’ wife actively led opposition to the ACA and that didn’t stop Slappy from voting to kill ACA!

270
ObserverArt  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:15:31pm

re: #249 BeachDem

Go ahead, Johnny, mention Mike DeWine—I double dog dare ya!!

/

OH NOOOOOO! YOU DIDN’T!!!

Time to fix dinner…back later for the shit…err, Republican clown show.

271
Domo Arigato Marco Roboto  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:15:32pm

Local boom update: reports now confirming explosion wasn’t security related- as I thought earlier, it was an apartment’s tank gas that exploded. Thankfully, there don’t appear to be any fatalities and only two people hospitalized with what’s being reported as light injuries.

272
CuriousLurker  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:15:33pm

Wow, condolences to his family.

I haven’t read through the thread or the articles, but has anyone started accusing President Obama of having him killed yet? Because you know someone is going to.

273
blueraven  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:16:02pm

Obama could nominate Chris Christie. He is looking for a new job.

/

274
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:16:38pm

re: #269 Joe Bacon

Why would he recuse himself? Thomas’ wife actively led opposition to the ACA and that didn’t stop Slappy from voting to kill ACA!

Because Obama is a better man than that. Thomas should have done that but he didn’t.

275
lawhawk  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:16:42pm

re: #251 Brian J.

Chief Justice does have special role on the Court. They get to lead oral arguments, and they choose who writes the majority opinion (when the CJ is with the majority).

They also are the judge for impeachment.

276
Skip Intro  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:16:55pm

re: #267 Charles Johnson

Gong out on a high note.

277
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:16:56pm

re: #273 blueraven

Obama could nominate Chris Christie. He is looking for a new job.

/

I hear Marco Rubio’s bored with the Senate. //

278
Domo Arigato Marco Roboto  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:17:09pm

re: #272 CuriousLurker

Wow, condolences to his family.

I haven’t read through the thread or the articles, but has anyone started accusing President Obama of having him killed yet? Because you know someone is going to.

About 40% of the Breit commenters, with 40% accusing Hillary.
Surprisingly low figures … /

279
Skip Intro  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:17:33pm

re: #272 CuriousLurker

Wow, condolences to his family.

I haven’t read through the thread or the articles, but has anyone started accusing President Obama of having him killed yet? Because you know someone is going to.

Have you heard of Free Republic or Breitbart?

280
wrenchwench  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:18:00pm

Here’s what’s up in a New Mexico town:

During the recent armed takeover of the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge, supporters carrying firearms roamed the streets of nearby Burns, Oregon. Fearing violence, Burns residents closed schools and cancelled community meetings. Here in [deleted] County, statements supportive of the Malheur takeover have been published, and a local rancher who traveled to Burns to renounce his grazing permit has urged that the fight continue.

Bring your questions and ideas to a community conversation on how [deleted] can maintain peace and security with respect for all.

That was written before the end of the takeover. Meeting is scheduled for next Thurs.

From a different source:

Please remain vigilant as you go about your daily work on New Mexico ranches.

There are several things that YOU can do NOW:

* Alert your local law enforcement of the threat to you, your family, your animals and your livelihood

* Alert your neighbors and friends of the threat and the need to remain on alert

* Contact your local media and ask if they will help spread the word about the danger in your community

* If you believe you have lost cattle to this campaign, immediately contact local law enforcement, your New Mexico Livestock Board inspector, your local game warden and the federal or state land management agency(s) you deal with.

* Document any dead cattle and / or any other signs of damage or destruction on your ranch. Remember that in the past fences have been cut, water tanks drained, bolts removed from windmill or water towers and more. There is actually a whole book on Monkey Wrenching livestock production instructing on how to best harm ranchers.

And the thing you shouldn’t do:

Don’t confront anyone engaging in cow killing or suspicious activity on your property, leases or allotments

281
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:18:10pm

re: #275 lawhawk

Chief Justice does have special role on the Court. They get to lead oral arguments, and they choose who writes the majority opinion (when the CJ is with the majority).

They also are the judge for impeachment.

Right. CJ does have some power to it. Crazy fact, we haven’t had a Democratic appointed CJ since Fred Vinson under Truman. Warren, Burger, Rehnquist, and Roberts were all Republican appointees.

282
Domo Arigato Marco Roboto  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:18:20pm

re: #279 Skip Intro

Have you heard of Free Republic or Breitbart?

If he hasn’t, he’s luckier than most… /noseriouslythough

283
Skip Intro  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:18:52pm

re: #273 blueraven

Obama could nominate Chris Christie. He is looking for a new job.

/

I believe he may be a former federal prosecutor as well.

284
Tigger2  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:18:53pm
285
Brian J.  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:19:08pm

re: #275 lawhawk

Chief Justice does have special role on the Court. They get to lead oral arguments, and they choose who writes the majority opinion (when the CJ is with the majority).

They also are the judge for impeachment.

Right, but their votes don’t count any more than other justices or break ties. And the senior justice has some procedural benefits as well (he basically has the responsibilities of the CJ when the latter is in the minority on a case). The CJ is only the judge for impeachment if the impeachment is of the President or Vice President; otherwise, that’s the VP’s job as President of the Senate.

286
CuriousLurker  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:20:29pm

re: #282 Domo Arigato Marco Roboto

If he hasn’t, he’s luckier than most… /noseriouslythough

She—I’m a she. You don’t know that after all these years? Sheesh. //

287
blueraven  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:20:30pm

re: #283 Skip Intro

I believe he may be a former federal prosecutor as well.

Really, I hadn’t heard…///

He did do quite a number on Rubio though. Impressive!

288
Reality Based Steve  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:21:19pm

re: #285 Brian J.

Right, but their votes don’t count any more than other justices or break ties. And the senior justice has some procedural benefits as well (he basically has the responsibilities of the CJ when the latter is in the minority on a case). The CJ is only the judge for impeachment if the impeachment is of the President or Vice President; otherwise, that’s the VP’s job as President of the Senate.

I understand that they are also exempt from putting any money into the coffee fund each week. ///

RBS

289
Skip Intro  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:21:28pm

As long as we’re being honest here, let’s also admit that if this vacancy had come up the day after Obama won re-election, the GOP would still be demanding the position remain open until after the next presidential election.

290
lawhawk  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:21:40pm

re: #285 Brian J.

That role falls to Kennedy now.

291
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:21:51pm

I didn’t realize Conn Carroll is an aide to Mike Lee. Really Obama please run with the fact that the Republicans have already talked about rejecting your nominee even though you haven’t chosen anyone yet. The American people need to see the GOP for the obstructionist assholes they are.

292
Joe Bacon  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:21:59pm

re: #285 Brian J.

Right, but their votes don’t count any more than other justices or break ties. And the senior justice has some procedural benefits as well (he basically has the responsibilities of the CJ when the latter is in the minority on a case). The CJ is only the judge for impeachment if the impeachment is of the President or Vice President; otherwise, that’s the VP’s job as President of the Senate.

I remember reading the Impeachment rules that the Republicans passed when they tried Andrew Johnson and there was a clause in the rules that would have had the most senior Associate Justice of the Supreme Court preside over Johnson’s impeachment if the Chief Justice was incapacitated.

293
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:22:21pm

re: #289 Skip Intro

As long as we’re being honest here, let’s also admit that if this vacancy had come up the day after Obama won re-election, the GOP would still be demanding the position remain open until after the next presidential election.

Of course.

294
Decatur Deb  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:22:28pm

Obama should nominate noted constitutional scholar Rafael Edward Cruz, just for lulz.

295
PhillyPretzel  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:23:00pm

re: #294 Decatur Deb

I like the Biden suggestion better.

296
Brian J.  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:23:11pm

re: #290 lawhawk

That role falls to Kennedy now.

True, and people thought he was important on the Court before…

A lot of 5-4 conservative decisions just became 4-4 default judgments. The most immediate question for the Court is whether the justices want to issue them or wait until they have affirmative judgments to render.

297
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:23:17pm

re: #294 Decatur Deb

Obama should nominate noted constitutional scholar Rafael Edward Cruz, just for lulz.

He’d probably vote against his own confirmation if he could.

298
Belafon  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:23:36pm

What I expect to hear from most Republican Congresspeople is that the new nominee should be conservative like Scalia, so as not to disrupt the decisions currently being considered by the court.

299
Skip Intro  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:24:59pm

re: #297 HappyWarrior

I would expect President Cruz to appoint his father to the SC. Trump would appoint one of his sons.

300
Brother Holy Cruise Missile of Mild Acceptance  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:25:03pm

Well McConnell came out and said he’s going to obstruct the president…again.

301
Domo Arigato Marco Roboto  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:25:04pm

re: #286 CuriousLurker

She—I’m a she. You don’t know that after all these years? Sheesh. //

Sorry! Got my replies mixed up… xD

302
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:25:09pm

Oh man there was a woman whose name came up when Kagan and Sotomayor were chosen. I forget her name. It’s Kathleen something though I think. But openly lesbian. Not only qualified but I’d love that for the reaction alone. Obama has shown to me he values diversity in who he places on the court so that could fit. Judge Nguyen who has been brought up fits that as an Asian-American as well.

303
Testy Toad T  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:25:22pm

re: #298 Belafon

What I expect to hear from most Republican Congresspeople is that the new nominee should be conservative like Scalia, so as not to disrupt the decisions currently being considered by the court.

To be honest, I’d be fine with an actual conservative replacement. But let’s be serious about what “conservative” means, because I don’t want another nutcase reactionary douchecanoe.

304
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:25:24pm

re: #299 Skip Intro

I would expect President Cruz to appoint his father to the SC. Trump would appoint one of his sons.

Not Ivanka?

305
Domo Arigato Marco Roboto  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:25:24pm
306
sagehen  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:25:30pm

re: #275 lawhawk

Chief Justice does have special role on the Court. They get to lead oral arguments, and they choose who writes the majority opinion (when the CJ is with the majority).

They also are the judge for impeachment.

Don’t they also choose which cases get taken up in the first place?

307
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:26:01pm

re: #300 Brother Holy Cruise Missile of Mild Acceptance

Well McConnell came out and said he’s going to obstruct the president…again.

Really fuck these guys. They don’t even know who Obama’s going to pick. At least wait until the President comes out with a choice.

308
PhillyPretzel  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:26:04pm

re: #300 Brother Holy Cruise Missile of Mild Acceptance

at least he is consistent. //

309
Brian J.  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:26:17pm

re: #306 sagehen

Don’t they also choose which cases get taken up in the first place?

Any four justices can choose to grant certiorari, I believe.

310
Skip Intro  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:26:19pm

re: #304 HappyWarrior

Not Ivanka?

Nah. She’s too hot to spend her days covered in black robes.

311
Belafon  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:26:32pm

re: #306 sagehen

Don’t they also choose which cases get taken up in the first place?

Nope. Any four of the members can decide to review a case.

312
Bill and Opus for 2016!  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:26:36pm

re: #300 Brother Holy Cruise Missile of Mild Acceptance

Well McConnell came out and said he’s going to obstruct the president…again.

Just heard that on CNN - McConnell said he will block any attempt for Obama to place a Supreme Court nominee to replace Scalia.

313
Charles Johnson  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:26:53pm
314
blueraven  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:26:55pm

Mitch McConnell says: No way Obama will replace Scalia.

315
Belafon  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:27:07pm

re: #310 Skip Intro

Nah. She’s too hot to spend her days covered in black robes.

He’d just require they be tight fitting, or two piece.

316
Reality Based Steve  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:27:14pm

re: #286 CuriousLurker

She—I’m a she. You don’t know that after all these years? Sheesh. //

Be careful, or she’ll unleash the creepy manikin heads on us.

317
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:27:29pm

re: #312 Bill and Opus for 2016!

Just heard that on CNN - McConnell said he will block any attempt for Obama to place a Supreme Court nominee to replace Scalia.

And he has the nerve to accuse Obama of not working with them. But what do we expect form Yurtle the Turtle who promised he’d make Obama a one termer? Still salty over that eh Mitch?

318
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:27:57pm

re: #313 Charles Johnson

[Embedded content]

Obama wasn’t happy with alot of Scalia’s decisions.

319
Domo Arigato Marco Roboto  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:28:09pm

re: #313 Charles Johnson

[Embedded content]

Charles, you’re not really surprised at this point, are you?

320
PhillyPretzel  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:28:25pm

re: #314 blueraven

lol. It is the Supreme Court. The President can nominate whom he chooses. As to being confirmed that is another story.

321
Big Beautiful Door  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:28:26pm

re: #258 Whack-A-Mole

Sad as it is, I don’t see the GOP allowing someone to be confirmed to the position. It’s just not going to happen. This is too good of a GOTV issue for them. They will be able to mobilize all of their terrified regressive legions with the prospect of a liberal being appointed.

Even sadder is that the idea of another Scalia being appointed won’t likewise motivate liberals to get off their *** and go to the polls.

OTOH, McConnell said he wants the Senate to function normally, and normal function is to hold confirmation hearings then vote on the nominee. If the President picks a strong, middle-of-the-road jurist, I think he/she gets confirmed. My prediction.

322
Aunty Entity Dragon  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:28:30pm

re: #312 Bill and Opus for 2016!

Just heard that on CNN - McConnell said he will block any attempt for Obama to place a Supreme Court nominee to replace Scalia.

So that is it. The constitution has been effectively broken.

Is it time to simply go whole hog and block all and everything of any sort until the President can bring a nominee to a vote?

323
Jack Burton  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:28:41pm

re: #313 Charles Johnson

Because of course. Waiting for someone to try to link Hillary Clinton to it too because… Foster and derp.

324
wrenchwench  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:28:57pm

I’m for that.

325
Skip Intro  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:29:34pm

re: #315 Belafon

He’d just require they be tight fitting, or two piece.

I think he’d get the person who designed Beyonce’s SB costume to do it.

Classy.

326
Aunty Entity Dragon  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:29:55pm

Getting off politics for awhile.

327
Domo Arigato Marco Roboto  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:30:03pm

re: #323 Jack Burton

Because of course. Waiting for someone to try to link Hillary Clinton to it too because… Foster and derp.

Why wait? No shortage of Freepers and BreitNuts doing that since about the instant it was announced…

328
Targetpractice  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:30:06pm

Well, at least Republicans didn’t spend months making excuses for why they would not allow a vote and are just being open in their refusal to consider any candidate nominated by this president because they view that open seat as theirs to appoint.

329
Jack Burton  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:30:13pm

re: #312 Bill and Opus for 2016!

Just heard that on CNN - McConnell said he will block any attempt for Obama to place a Supreme Court nominee to replace Scalia.

I’m starting to wish there was a dissolve the congress mechanism in the constitution.

330
Belafon  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:30:18pm
331
sagehen  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:30:23pm

re: #302 HappyWarrior

Oh man there was a woman whose name came up when Kagan and Sotomayor were chosen. I forget her name. It’s Kathleen something though I think. But openly lesbian. Not only qualified but I’d love that for the reaction alone. Obama has shown to me he values diversity in who he places on the court so that could fit. Judge Nguyen who has been brought up fits that as an Asian-American as well.

Kathleen Sullivan, she used to be Dean of Stanford Law.

332
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:30:58pm

re: #330 Belafon

[Embedded content]

You helped build that, Dave.

333
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:32:14pm

re: #331 sagehen

Kathleen Sullivan, she used to be Dean of Stanford Law.

Sullivan, yes thank you, I knew it was an Irish surname. I see she studied under Lawrence Tribe who II believe is Obama’s old mentor as well.

334
Targetpractice  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:32:14pm

re: #330 Belafon

[Embedded content]

Yeah, David, we’re all shocked that he would do such a thing.

///////

335
Domo Arigato Marco Roboto  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:32:49pm

The sheer hypocrisy of these bastards… can you imagine the outrage if a Democratic senate/congress was making such statements while a republican president was about to leave office? Bunch of lousy, rotten no-good worthless, wordless hypocrites…

336
CuriousLurker  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:33:11pm

re: #289 Skip Intro

As long as we’re being honest here, let’s also admit that if this vacancy had come up the day after Obama won re-election, the GOP would still be demanding the position remain open until after the next presidential election.

You know what would be absolute poetry? If the GOP somehow managed to block the appointment of a new justice until after the next election, then a Dem wins and appoints President Obama. That position is FOR LIFE, wingnuts—you’ll be stuck with him for decades now—BWAHAHAHAHAHA….

They’d go absolutely apeshit. It makes me happy just thinking about it.

337
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:33:24pm

re: #335 Domo Arigato Marco Roboto

The sheer hypocrisy of these bastards… can you imagine the outrage if a Democratic senate/congress was saying this while a republican president was about to leave office? Bunch of lousy, rotten no-good worthless, wordless hypocrites…

It’s what they do. Their party is morally bankrupt.

338
Nojay UK  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:33:32pm

The supremecourt.gov website list of Associate Justices still hasn’t been updated as of this moment.

339
Big Beautiful Door  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:34:11pm

re: #300 Brother Holy Cruise Missile of Mild Acceptance

Well McConnell came out and said he’s going to obstruct the president…again.

Link? I’m actually surprised he would do that this quickly.

340
Ziggy_TARDIS  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:34:27pm

Ice Cube - It Was A Good Day

Today’s theme song.

Why yes, I do like kicking the opponent when they are down.

341
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:35:05pm

re: #336 CuriousLurker

You know what would be absolute poetry? If the GOP somehow managed to block the appointment of a new justice until after the next election, then a Dem wins and appoints President Obama. That position is FOR LIFE, wingnuts—you’ll be stuck with him for decades now—BWAHAHAHAHAHA….

They’d go absolutely apeshit. It makes me happy just thinking about it.

That would be pretty damn priceless.

342
Tigger2  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:35:18pm
343
Big Beautiful Door  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:35:31pm

re: #306 sagehen

Don’t they also choose which cases get taken up in the first place?

No, that is done by vote, four justices can grant a petition for a writ.

344
Charles Johnson  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:35:36pm
345
PhillyPretzel  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:35:39pm

re: #336 CuriousLurker

Yes, that could happen. I, personally think Joe Biden has a better chance.

346
Charles Johnson  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:36:19pm
347
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:37:47pm

re: #346 Charles Johnson

[Embedded content]

Kristinn knows lots about hypocrisy since he hangs out with Jim Hoft.

348
Whack-A-Mole  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:38:02pm

re: #321 Big Beautiful Door

OTOH, McConnell said he wants the Senate to function normally, and normal function is to hold confirmation hearings then vote on the nominee. If the President picks a strong, middle-of-the-road jurist, I think he/she gets confirmed. My prediction.

Your faith in the GOP’s commitment to effective governance of the country and faithful adherence to the actual Constitution (as opposed to their imagined one) is touching.

349
Charles Johnson  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:38:12pm
350
Skip Intro  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:38:29pm

re: #346 Charles Johnson

See, the difference is the GOP hasn’t been approving Obama judicial nominees for years. There’s something like 80 vacant seats now, all because the GOP won’t act.

351
CuriousLurker  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:38:31pm

re: #316 Reality Based Steve

Be careful, or she’ll unleash the creepy manikin heads on us.

Oh here, I’ve got something cool for you guys. As a matter of fact, it’s the reason I stopped by, but the shock of the news of Scalia’s death distracted me.

You know who they do that 3D sidewalk chalk art? This is the same concept, but on interior floors. I had no idea it even existed till about an hour ago. Trippy.

Google Images: 3D epoxy floors

352
Big Beautiful Door  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:38:45pm

re: #321 Big Beautiful Door

OTOH, McConnell said he wants the Senate to function normally, and normal function is to hold confirmation hearings then vote on the nominee. If the President picks a strong, middle-of-the-road jurist, I think he/she gets confirmed. My prediction.

Boy I was wrong fast on that one. So much for the Senate functioning normally.

353
Belafon  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:38:47pm

re: #346 Charles Johnson

Yep, well, they still approved them: en.wikipedia.org

354
KingKenrod  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:38:49pm

re: #339 Big Beautiful Door

Link? I’m actually surprised he would do that this quickly.

355
wrenchwench  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:39:26pm

I just spoke with Mr. w. I decided I would be just as happy if Scalia was off the court but not dead.

He said the last time he felt good about hearing of someone’s death it was J. Edgar Hoover.

356
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:39:36pm

re: #354 KingKenrod

[Embedded content]

McConnell needs to be called loudly for the obstructionist asshole he is. Sorry Mitch, fuck you.

357
Skip Intro  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:39:38pm

re: #352 Big Beautiful Door

Boy I was wrong fast on that one. So much for the Senate functioning normally.

They are functioning normally (for the GOP).

358
Nojay UK  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:40:05pm

re: #345 PhillyPretzel

Yes, that could happen. I, personally think Joe Biden has a better chance.

Joe B. is too old and too tired. President Obama needs to appoint someone who will be there for at least twenty years or more. Justice Scalia was 50 when he was appointed by Reagan (or whoever was telling him what to do at that time) and he has been handing down refusals for stays of execution for thirty years because he was a good Catholic.

359
CuriousLurker  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:40:09pm

re: #323 Jack Burton

Because of course. Waiting for someone to try to link Hillary Clinton to it too because… Foster and derp.

I had the same thought: If not Obama, then Hillary.

360
Charles Johnson  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:40:40pm
361
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:40:59pm

re: #358 Nojay UK

Joe B. is too old and too tired. President Obama needs to appoint someone who will be there for at least twenty years or more. Justice Scalia was 50 when he was appointed by Reagan (or whoever was telling him what to do at that time) and he has been handing down refusals for stays of execution for thirty years because he was a good Catholic.

That’s what I was thinking. Someone we know will be there in the long run which is what we saw with Sotomayor and Kagan. I’m sure he’ll make a good choice.

362
Rocky-in-Connecticut  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:41:07pm

Any Judicial System buffs, with the prospect of a reasonable and clear-minded individual being appointed to the SCOTUS and flipping recent heinous 5-4 right wing decisions, what is the procedure for reversing the damage caused by rulings like Citizen’s United?

363
Shiplord Kirel  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:41:17pm

re: #349 Charles Johnson

[Embedded content]

“Whom the gods would destroy, they first make mad. “

Let us hope.

364
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:41:31pm

re: #360 Charles Johnson

[Embedded content]

Waaah, the country’ doomed. OFFS you fucking crybabies, get the fuck over yourselves.

365
sffilk  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:41:45pm

Baruch ata, Dayan Ha-emes.

366
Big Beautiful Door  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:42:21pm

re: #348 Whack-A-Mole

Your faith in the GOP’s commitment to effective governance of the country and faithful adherence to the actual Constitution (as opposed to their imagined one) is touching.

For once, I let my hopefulness overcome my cynicism. I am actually surprised at how quickly McConnell announced the Senate simply wouldn’t perform its Constitutional duty.

367
Skip Intro  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:42:21pm

The country’s doomed? So how is that different from every other day?

368
WhatEVs  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:42:34pm

re: #91 Skip Intro

Right now the candidates for tonight’s debate are looking for the most far right, depraved wingnuts they can find to claim that’s who they’d appoint.

Where’s the debate tonight? Is it online only?

As for Scalia….

369
freetoken  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:43:05pm

re: #368 WhatEVs

Where’s the debate tonight? Is it online only?

As for Scalia….

CBS. Live stream at CBSN.

370
Skip Intro  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:43:30pm

re: #366 Big Beautiful Door

He didn’t wait long after Obama was elected to declare that the GOP’s sole goal was to make him a one term president. Old Mitch has been a huge prick for a long time.

371
Charles Johnson  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:43:33pm
372
wrenchwench  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:43:42pm
373
freetoken  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:44:25pm

re: #372 wrenchwench

Um, that may be written too soon. We don’t know who the replacement may be.

374
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:44:29pm

re: #370 Skip Intro

He didn’t wait long after Obama was elected to declare that the GOP’s sole goal was to make him a one term president. Old Mitch has been a huge prick for a long time.

But why won’t Obama work with them? //

375
Belafon  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:44:56pm

re: #362 Rocky-in-Connecticut

Any Judicial System buffs, with the prospect of a reasonable and clear-minded individual being appointed to the SCOTUS and flipping recent heinous 5-4 right wing decisions, what is the procedure for reversing the damage caused by rulings like Citizen’s United?

Someone would have to bring a case through the courts challenging the CU decision and have it make it up to the Supreme Court.

376
Skip Intro  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:45:01pm

re: #374 HappyWarrior

But why won’t Obama work with them? //

He’s uppity is what I’m hearing.

377
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:45:06pm

re: #373 freetoken

Um, that may be written too soon. We don’t know who the replacement may be.

I dunno. I think at worst Obama’s replacement will be Kennedylike. I know what you mean though.

378
freetoken  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:45:44pm

re: #377 HappyWarrior

I dunno. I think at worst Obama’s replacement will be Kennedylike. I know what you mean though.

I’m expecting that Cruz/McConnell will be successful in their stopping any nominee.

379
Domo Arigato Marco Roboto  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:45:48pm

re: #360 Charles Johnson

[Embedded content]

Futurama Bender(s) Universe Doomed
futurama - doom at 11

380
CuriousLurker  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:46:08pm

re: #340 Ziggy_TARDIS

[Embedded content]

Today’s theme song.

Why yes, I do like kicking the opponent when they are down.

That’s inappropriate. A man just died—he might’ve been a wingnut and someone we disliked, but he wasn’t a criminal or a terrorist—he was a SCOTUS justice, FFS.

381
Belafon  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:46:09pm

So who on the left wants to whine that they don’t have a good reason to vote?

382
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:46:30pm

re: #378 freetoken

I’m expecting that Cruz/McConnell will be successful in their stopping any nominee.

Fair enough. Hopefully the Dem nominee can use that as leverage to get us the Senate back fi they pull that shit.

383
Charles Johnson  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:46:34pm
384
Big Beautiful Door  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:46:58pm

re: #362 Rocky-in-Connecticut

Any Judicial System buffs, with the prospect of a reasonable and clear-minded individual being appointed to the SCOTUS and flipping recent heinous 5-4 right wing decisions, what is the procedure for reversing the damage caused by rulings like Citizen’s United?

A new law has to be passed which violates the Citizens United decision, then the case has to work its way up to the high court. If the court accepts the case and reverses Citizens United, then the new law can be enforced.

385
Big Beautiful Door  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:47:30pm

re: #368 WhatEVs

Where’s the debate tonight? Is it online only?

As for Scalia….

CBS at 9:00 et

386
Bill and Opus for 2016!  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:48:44pm

From the Washington Post:

washingtonpost.com

BREAKING NEWS: Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) shut down the process for approving a successor to the late Justice Antonin Scalia before it even started, declaring Saturday night that the seat should not be filled until the next president is sworn into office.

“The American people‎ should have a voice in the selection of their next Supreme Court Justice. Therefore, this vacancy should not be filled until we have a new President,” he said in a statement.

McConnell’s view is likely to be sharply challenged by President Obama and Democrats, but it will be difficult to overcome the objection of the Senate leader, whose position is likely to be supported by most Republicans.

Someone needs to remind McConnell of Article II, Section 2 of the US Constitution - it is pretty specific on Presidential Powers.

He shall have Power, by and with the Advice and Consent of the Senate, to make Treaties, provided two thirds of the Senators present concur; and he shall nominate, and by and with the Advice and Consent of the Senate, shall appoint Ambassadors, other public Ministers and Consuls, Judges of the supreme Court, and all other Officers of the United States, whose Appointments are not herein otherwise provided for, and which shall be established by Law: but the Congress may by Law vest the Appointment of such inferior Officers, as they think proper, in the President alone, in the Courts of Law, or in the Heads of Departments.

387
CuriousLurker  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:49:09pm

re: #360 Charles Johnson

[Embedded content]

Oh gawd, the RWNJ hysteria. I don’t know if I can take it.

388
Tigger2  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:49:10pm

re: #383 Charles Johnson

[Embedded content]

389
Big Beautiful Door  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:50:53pm

re: #386 Bill and Opus for 2016!

From the Washington Post:

washingtonpost.com

Someone needs to remind McConnell of Article II, Section 2 of the US Constitution - it is pretty specific on Presidential Powers.

I feel sorry for whoever the President nominates to not be a Supreme Court Justice. He needs to make it a good one to demonstrate the complete degeneracy of the GOP.

390
gocart mozart  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:50:58pm

re: #141 Tigger2

391
Targetpractice  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:51:10pm

re: #386 Bill and Opus for 2016!

From the Washington Post:

washingtonpost.com

Someone needs to remind McConnell of Article II, Section 2 of the US Constitution - it is pretty specific on Presidential Powers.

The people HAD a voice, Mitch, back in 2012. YOU LOST!

392
Belafon  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:51:19pm

re: #386 Bill and Opus for 2016!

They did have a voice Mitch. In 2012 they voted for president, and in 2012 they voted in the current Senate. Do your job.

393
Tigger2  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:52:10pm

re: #390 gocart mozart

[Embedded content]

I already told Cruz that was going to be Hillary.

394
Testy Toad T  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:52:46pm

Remember when the Republican Party actually paid lip service to the idea that they would attempt to perform the duties of the positions to which they were elected?

Pepperidge Farm remembers.

395
Ziggy_TARDIS  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:52:50pm

re: #380 CuriousLurker

-Redacted-

Acted like left-wing Trump.

396
Nojay UK  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:52:50pm

re: #386 Bill and Opus for 2016!

So President Obama nominates someone, hearings are held and then a vote is taken in the Republican-held Senate and the candidate is rejected by a majority of the Senators. Then what? He nominates someone else, the same thing happens again, and again until January 2017 when he leaves office. This is, as far as I can see, not unconstitutional. Radical, yes, revolutionary and unprecedented but within the words and meaning of the Constitution.

397
wrenchwench  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:53:05pm
398
Testy Toad T  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:53:43pm

re: #395 Ziggy_TARDIS

I might feel bad, except that he has made the lives of so many people very miserable. Not to mention, that is one less political opponent for Left in the US.

You don’t feel bad somebody died because now you have one less political opponent?

Enjoy your well-considered downding. This Team A vs Team B bullshit is how we got here in the first place.

399
wrenchwench  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:54:06pm

re: #392 Belafon

They did have a voice Mitch. In 2012 they voted for president, and in 2012 they voted in the current Senate. Do your job.

400
Skip Intro  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:54:11pm

So after wading in the swamp waters of a couple of RWNJ sites, I think I see how it was done.

Malhuer was a false flag government operation to distract the country while Obama’s minions went about getting the ricin in place down in Texas to assassinate Scalia.

Of course it’s early yet, so they haven’t yet been able to link in Ron Brown, Vince Foster, Loretta Fuddy, and Breitbart into the conspiracy, but I have faith that they will.

401
Belafon  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:54:11pm

And remember, he wasn’t the oldest justice.

402
WhatEVs  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:54:27pm

re: #145 EPR-radar

The best I can do is refrain from celebrating his death. I will never whitewash or mute my opinion of his odious body of work as a supreme court justice.

This.

403
urbanmeemaw  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:54:35pm

re: #18 sizzzzlerz

He must have taken Scalia’s share of the cute, warm puppy blood they need for their transfusions.

404
Tigger2  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:54:36pm

re: #396 Nojay UK

So President Obama nominates someone, hearings are held and then a vote is taken in the Republican-held Senate and the candidate is rejected by a majority of the Senators. Then what? He nominates someone else, the same thing happens again, and again until January 2017 when he leaves office. This is, as far as I can see, not unconstitutional. Radical, yes, revolutionary and unprecedented but within the words and meaning of the Constitution.

It could conceivable piss the Dem’s off enough to get out a vote.

405
Bill and Opus for 2016!  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:55:09pm

re: #396 Nojay UK

So President Obama nominates someone, hearings are held and then a vote is taken in the Republican-held Senate and the candidate is rejected by a majority of the Senators. Then what? He nominates someone else, the same thing happens again, and again until January 2017 when he leaves office. This is, as far as I can see, not unconstitutional. Radical, yes, revolutionary and unprecedented but within the words and meaning of the Constitution.

Except McConnell is saying he won’t even let the nominee reach the Senate floor for debate - he says he will be pre-emptively blocking any attempt to nominate a successor.

406
Nyet  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:55:18pm

RIP.

407
Belafon  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:55:47pm

re: #404 Tigger2

It could conceivable piss the Dem’s off enough to get out a vote.

If that would do it, I would encourage him to announce a dozen new candidates.

408
PhillyPretzel  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:56:14pm

re: #406 Nyet

Yes. That first and foremost.

409
FormerDirtDart  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:57:03pm

Ouch

410
Belafon  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:57:12pm

re: #405 Bill and Opus for 2016!

Except McConnell is saying he won’t even let the nominee reach the Senate floor for debate - he says he will be pre-emptively blocking any attempt to nominate a successor.

Didn’t that happen once, and everyone got mad enough that the Senate conceded and went through the nomination?

411
Dr. Matt  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:57:13pm
412
Charles Johnson  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:57:29pm
413
gocart mozart  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:57:34pm

re: #203 Aunty Entity Dragon

414
Rocky-in-Connecticut  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:58:08pm

re: #384 Big Beautiful Door

Thanks for the answer.

A thought just occurred to me, now who will Justice Thomas crib notes from? I look forward to a Justice Thomas authored dissent opinion without the Looking over the shoulderJudicial guidance from Justice Scalia. Could prove entertaining.

415
Nojay UK  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:58:20pm

re: #404 Tigger2

It could conceivable piss the Dem’s off enough to get out a vote.

It could also encourage the Republican voters to get to the polls en masse to prevent a miscarriage of a Justice and ensure that President Trump can appoint Melania to the Supremes on day one of his HYUUUGE first term.

416
Big Beautiful Door  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:58:26pm

re: #394 Testy Toad T

Remember when the Republican Party actually paid lip service to the idea that they would attempt to perform the duties of the positions to which they were elected?

Pepperidge Farm remembers.

Silly me, I actually thought McConnell meant it. If the Democrats regain control of the Senate, its time for the filibuster to go.

417
Tigger2  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:58:49pm

re: #415 Nojay UK

It could also encourage the Republican voters to get to the polls en masse to prevent a miscarriage of a Justice and ensure that President Trump can appoint Melania to the Supremes on day one of his HYUUUGE first term.

They were going anyway. I wish the Dem’s did vote like the Republicans do.

418
Dr. Matt  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:58:53pm

Was Dick Cheney on this hunting trip?

419
WhatEVs  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:58:59pm

re: #150 lawhawk

Duval Patrick, Lisa Madigan, Klobachar, Granholm, Carlos Moreno. A qualified minority. That’ll GOTV.

Or, to really screw with the right, Holder.

420
TedStriker  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:59:04pm

re: #380 CuriousLurker

That’s inappropriate. A man just died—he might’ve been a wingnut and someone we disliked, but he wasn’t a criminal or a terrorist—he was a SCOTUS justice, FFS.

No shit…for the benefit of those Lizards who are already pissing on Scalia’s grave before the body’s even assumed room temperature, I’ll quote myself from above:

re: #190 TedStriker

Ideological and policy differences aside, my condolences to Scalia’s family and to his colleagues.

Talking about a replacement can come later; let’s not be like the Republicans, looking for any political advantage wherever we can get it, by hook or crook.

421
Belafon  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:59:05pm

re: #414 Rocky-in-Connecticut

Thanks for the answer.

A thought just occurred to me, now who will Justice Thomas crib notes from? I look forward to a Justice Thomas authored dissent opinion without the Looking over the shoulderJudicial guidance from Justice Scalia. Could prove entertaining.

I’m pretty sure he’ll copy from Alito.

422
Big Beautiful Door  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:59:28pm

re: #396 Nojay UK

So President Obama nominates someone, hearings are held and then a vote is taken in the Republican-held Senate and the candidate is rejected by a majority of the Senators. Then what? He nominates someone else, the same thing happens again, and again until January 2017 when he leaves office. This is, as far as I can see, not unconstitutional. Radical, yes, revolutionary and unprecedented but within the words and meaning of the Constitution.

No there will be no vote. The judiciary committee will simply refuse to hold confirmation hearings.

423
CuriousLurker  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:59:29pm

You know what’s funny? The wingnuts are always saying God told them this, God told them that, God wants America to be a Christian country, etc. So why aren’t they trusting God’s decision to to call Justice Scalia home now, hmm?

Oh right, because he didn’t just die he was assassinated. Silly me, I forgot. So it happened in Texas. I wonder if they’ll link it to Jade Helm somehow. Surely someone will.

424
Ziggy_TARDIS  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:59:46pm

re: #416 Big Beautiful Door

No, because if we get rid of it, and they regain power, we end up screwed.

Instead, Democrats need to focus on gaining control of 60 seats in Congress.

425
PhillyPretzel  Feb 13, 2016 • 3:59:48pm

re: #418 Dr. Matt

Don’t know.

426
EPR-radar  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:00:03pm

re: #256 Belafon

I like your universe. Totally unworkable, but nice.

Actually, we pretty much know how Kennedy will vote: Strict conservative on anything but gay rights. That doesn’t make him a swing voter.

Kennedy wasn’t a 5th vote to overturn Roe. Instead, he’ll subject the right to chose to death by a thousand cuts.

427
Skip Intro  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:00:10pm

re: #414 Rocky-in-Connecticut

Thanks for the answer.

A thought just occurred to me, now who will Justice Thomas crib notes from? I look forward to a Justice Thomas authored dissent opinion without the Looking over the shoulderJudicial guidance from Justice Scalia. Could prove entertaining.

I believe Scalia left him his Ouija Board.

428
b_sharp  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:00:51pm

re: #423 CuriousLurker

You know what’s funny? The wingnuts are always saying God told them this, God told them that, God wants America to be a Christian country, etc. So why aren’t they trusting God’s decision to to call Justice Scalia home now, hmm?

Oh right, because he didn’t just die he was assassinated. Silly me, I forgot. So it happened in Texas. I wonder if they’ll link it to Jade Helm somehow. Surely someone will.

“Puny god”

429
Big Beautiful Door  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:01:53pm

re: #414 Rocky-in-Connecticut

Thanks for the answer.

A thought just occurred to me, now who will Justice Thomas crib notes from? I look forward to a Justice Thomas authored dissent opinion without the Looking over the shoulderJudicial guidance from Justice Scalia. Could prove entertaining.

To be fair, Thomas has his own unique judicial philosophy which sometimes led him to vote differently than Scalia.

430
Eclectic Cyborg  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:02:26pm

Good god, we have Scalia truthers already??

431
Skip Intro  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:03:15pm

re: #429 Big Beautiful Door

Yes, he has his RWNJ lobbyist wife to tell him what the Constitution says. He’ll be fine.

432
BeachDem  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:04:18pm

re: #386 Bill and Opus for 2016!

From the Washington Post:

washingtonpost.com

Someone needs to remind McConnell of Article II, Section 2 of the US Constitution - it is pretty specific on Presidential Powers.

“The American people‎ should have a voice in the selection of their next Supreme Court Justice.

The American people did have a voice in that selection. We elected President Obama to a four-year term, not three. What assholes these Republicans are.

433
Skip Intro  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:04:20pm

re: #430 Eclectic Cyborg

Good god, we have Scalia truthers already??

It all goes back the the Mena airport.

434
EPR-radar  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:04:24pm

re: #303 Testy Toad T

To be honest, I’d be fine with an actual conservative replacement. But let’s be serious about what “conservative” means, because I don’t want another nutcase reactionary douchecanoe.

Help me here. Is there a meaningful distinction in the US these days between “conservative” and “nutcase reactionary douchecanoe”?

435
Big Beautiful Door  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:04:32pm

re: #424 Ziggy_TARDIS

No, because if we get rid of it, and they regain power, we end up screwed.

Instead, Democrats need to focus on gaining control of 60 seats in Congress.

I disagree. Elections should have consequences. if the voters choose to give control of Congress and the Presidency to one party, that party should not have to have a super majority in the Senate just to do what it promised the voters it would do. If the Senate only exists to not do anything, then it should be abolished.

436
freetoken  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:05:10pm

TRUMP: Antonin Scalia was ‘one of the best of all time’

Republican presidential front-runner Donald Trump hailed the legacy of Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia on Saturday.

[…]

“Justice Scalia was a remarkable person and a brilliant Supreme Court Justice, one of the best of all time,” Trump said.

[…]

The gathering tonight is going to be more wretched than usual.

437
ausador  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:05:16pm
438
CuriousLurker  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:05:32pm

re: #395 Ziggy_TARDIS

I might feel bad, except that he has made the lives of so many people very miserable. Not to mention, that is one less political opponent for Left in the US.

It’s not about whether or not you feel bad that he died—I don’t—I disliked him and his politics, but neither am I happy that he died. It was his time—mine will eventually come around and so will yours & everyone else’s here, as well as all the ones we love. So have some respect for our shared human mortality.

Also, self-justification is worse than the original offense.

439
Big Beautiful Door  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:05:41pm

re: #434 EPR-radar

Help me here. Is there a meaningful distinction in the US these days between “conservative” and “nutcase reactionary douchecanoe”?

No.

440
Ziggy_TARDIS  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:05:43pm

re: #398 Testy Toad T

-Redacted-

441
Interesting Times  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:06:01pm

Speaking of Mitch “The Turtle” McConnell, anyone remember this?

Mitch McConnell prays for the health of five Justices on the Supreme Court (there’s nine of them)

The best Supreme Court in anybody’s memory … I’m really proud of this Supreme Court … It’s only five to four, and I pray for the health of the five.

Seems God didn’t quite answer that prayer the way Mitch intended.

442
b_sharp  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:10:37pm

re: #440 Ziggy_TARDIS

You know they would be cheering if a Liberal Justice had this happen to them. Part of the issue is that the Democrats played nice for so long. We shouldn’t play nice with those who wish to eliminate civil and human rights for people in the US.

And you want to be just like the wingnuts?

443
Dark_Falcon  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:10:57pm

re: #33 Charles Johnson

Get ready for the battle of the century. President Obama now has a chance to break the conservative stranglehold on the Supreme Court.

I don’t think he does. Even Lindsey Graham has made clear he won’t vote for anyone substantially to the left of Orin Hatch. So President Obama will not be able to appoint a liberal to replace Scalia.

444
Skip Intro  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:11:49pm

re: #441 Interesting Times

If God were to call Clarence Thomas home, McConnell would demand that the Supremes make no rulings until the next president is seated.

Guaranteed.

445
VegasGolfer  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:12:26pm

Sounds like somebody is proud of what their fucked up party is going to do

446
Skip Intro  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:12:37pm

re: #445 VegasGolfer

Sounds like somebody is proud of what their fucked up party is going to do

He always is.

447
Aunty Entity Dragon  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:12:55pm

re: #420 TedStriker

No shit…for the benefit of those Lizards who are already pissing on Scalia’s grave before the body’s even assumed room temperature, I’ll quote myself from above:

He was happy to see me in prison for being a glbt person. He would have had my marriage dissolved and our child taken from us as a ward of the state.

Fuck him. Room temp or not, he was a menace to my family and my liberty as an American.

448
philosophus invidius  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:13:05pm

re: #422 Big Beautiful Door

No there will be no vote. The judiciary committee will simply refuse to hold confirmation hearings.

Last time I checked, the president has the power to appoint justices. But I guess we need to ignore the constitution in order to save it!

449
CuriousLurker  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:13:27pm

re: #440 Ziggy_TARDIS

You know they would be cheering if a Liberal Justice had this happen to them. Part of the issue is that the Democrats played nice for so long. We shouldn’t play nice with those who wish to eliminate civil and human rights for people in the US.

Oh yeah, brilliant, “We loathe what they do and we know they’d cheer, so let’s be just like them and cheer at the death of one of theirs!”

He wasn’t “one of theirs,” btw. He was one of us, an imperfect human.

450
Dr. Matt  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:13:30pm
451
Dark_Falcon  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:13:44pm

Graham’s words on Scalia’s passing and how he’ll vote:

cbsnews.com

452
Belafon  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:13:54pm

We’ll definitely have to see what Obama does. Any nominees he makes will probably only get one shot, so they’d be wasted unless they can be used to get the American people to scream at the Senate. On the other hand, it would be helpful in getting Democrats to vote if they saw the Congress obstructing a nominee.

453
Ziggy_TARDIS  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:14:06pm

re: #442 b_sharp

Audador’s tweet jarred me enough to think about what I wrote.

I have redacted the meanest of my comments.

454
William Lewis  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:14:37pm

re: #443 Dark_Falcon

I don’t think he does. Even Lindsey Graham has made clear he won’t vote for anyone substantially to the left of Orin Hatch. So President Obama will not be able to appoint a liberal to replace Scalia.

Then Hillary will. And when sane people have control of the senate again, the filibuster will end. That will be Mitch’s real legacy; breaking the hold his bosses from Kansas have on the Senate and the SCOTUS.

455
CuriousLurker  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:15:51pm

OKay, going back into lurk mode. I’ve had enough of this for now. Later.

456
Dark_Falcon  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:16:59pm

re: #454 William Lewis

Then Hillary will. And when sane people have control of the senate again, the filibuster will end. That will be Mitch’s real legacy; breaking the hold his bosses from Kansas have on the Senate and the SCOTUS.

If Hillary Clinton wins, then that’s a different story and she’ll be entitled to appoint a qualified person. Like Graham said, let the next president decide.

457
ausador  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:17:52pm

Ever get followed by someone on Twitter then when you look at their profile you realize their bugnuts? Then you see they don’t post that often and follow them back because “hey, they might be entertaining someday?”

Definitely first world rationale…

458
William Lewis  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:18:05pm

re: #447 Aunty Entity Dragon

He was happy to see me in prison for being a glbt person. He would have had my marriage dissolved and our child taken from us as a ward of the state.

Fuck him. Room temp or not, he was a menace to my family and my liberty as an American.

This. I am really quite happy that his Master in Hell has called him home. I only wish that the other three Koch puppets on the court could have gone back home with him.

459
William Lewis  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:18:53pm

re: #456 Dark_Falcon

If Hillary Clinton wins, then that’s a different story and she’ll be entitled to appoint a qualified person. Like Graham said, let the next president decide.

So we ignore Article II because the racist MF from Kentucky has his panties in a wad?

460
BeachDem  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:20:50pm

re: #456 Dark_Falcon

If Hillary Clinton wins, then that’s a different story and she’ll be entitled to appoint a qualified person. Like Graham said, let the next president decide.

Why? Presidents are elected for four years, not three.

461
philosophus invidius  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:21:00pm

re: #455 CuriousLurker

462
Nyet  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:21:17pm

I won’t cheer this death, but I sure won’t condemn anyone cheering it. The reasons for the cheering are all too obvious.

463
philosophus invidius  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:22:02pm

re: #456 Dark_Falcon

Why? Obama still has almost a year left of his 4 year term.

464
EPR-radar  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:22:03pm

re: #459 William Lewis

So we ignore the Article II because the racist MF from Kentucky has his panties in a wad?

Actually, there’s nothing at all unconstitutional about what the Republicans in the Senate are likely to do, assuming they let a SCOTUS nomination come to a vote.

465
TedStriker  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:22:26pm

re: #440 Ziggy_TARDIS

You know they would be cheering if a Liberal Justice had this happen to them. Part of the issue is that the Democrats played nice for so long. We shouldn’t play nice with those who wish to eliminate civil and human rights for people in the US.

It is possible to play political hardball without acting like complete fucking sociopathic scumbags.

466
Belafon  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:23:36pm

re: #463 philosophus invidius

Why? Obama still has almost a year left of his 4 year term.

Because a liberal might get appointed.

467
Belafon  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:24:46pm

re: #464 EPR-radar

Actually, there’s nothing at all unconstitutional about what the Republicans in the Senate are likely to do, assuming they let a SCOTUS nomination come to a vote.

You are correct. What Obama has to decide is if it’s important to force them to obstruct.

468
WhatEVs  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:24:59pm

re: #330 Belafon

469
philosophus invidius  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:25:31pm

re: #464 EPR-radar

Maybe technically so. But on the McConnell theory, the Congress can send the President the name of the single person they would approve. So then the president must choose either to “appoint” who the Congress tells him/her to or leave the position empty?

470
b_sharp  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:25:36pm

re: #453 Ziggy_TARDIS

Audador’s tweet jarred me enough to think about what I wrote.

I have redacted the meanest of my comments.

My young friend, you’re learning but you still have a way to go. When you feel anger or hatred coming out in your comments, take a moment and reflect on your own emotions, and most importantly, ask yourself if they’re out of proportion or not for the issue.

Self reflection is your best tool.

471
William Lewis  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:26:14pm

re: #464 EPR-radar

Actually, there’s nothing at all unconstitutional about what the Republicans in the Senate are likely to do, assuming they let a SCOTUS nomination come to a vote.

$20 says they will not vote out of racist spite.

472
EPR-radar  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:27:22pm

re: #460 BeachDem

Why? Presidents are elected for four years, not three.

We all know why. An Obama SCOTUS appointment, even if it manages to get through the Senate, will not be the kind of whack-job jurist that a Republican president would appoint.

So it is to the advantage of “Team R” to delay the nomination until after the election.

473
Dark_Falcon  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:27:49pm

re: #467 Belafon

You are correct. What Obama has to decide is if it’s important to force them to obstruct.

He can’t force the Senate to do anything. He can appoint someone, but he can’t make the Senate Judiciary Committee hold a hearing or vote on that nomination.

474
bmoak  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:28:13pm

re: #414 Rocky-in-Connecticut

Does Justice Thomas have a Ouija board?

475
BeachDem  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:28:17pm

Damn, it’s only been an hour or so since I was praising Lindsey Graham and now…

Graham did not go as far as other Republican senators, including White House hopefuls Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), in calling for the decision about Scalia’s successor to be left to the next president.

He said that while he voted for Kagan and Sotomayor because both were well-qualified despite his disagreements with their policies, he would not extend that courtesy to Obama’s next appointee.

He’ll only extend that courtesy to the NEXT president (and remember, he thinks Trey Gowdy would be an excellent Supreme.)

476
WhatEVs  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:28:59pm

re: #356 HappyWarrior

McConnell needs to be called loudly for the obstructionist asshole he is. Sorry Mitch, fuck you.

Party over country. Always.

477
EPR-radar  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:29:00pm

re: #469 philosophus invidius

Maybe technically so. But on the McConnell theory, the Congress can send the President the name of the single person they would approve. So then the president must choose either to “appoint” who the Congress tells him/her to or leave the position empty?

Correct. A common bad habit is regarding “bad” and “unconstitutional” as being synonyms, and I was pushing back on this a bit.

478
Aye Pod  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:29:25pm

re: #213 Belafon

[Embedded content]

I feel bad for the writers of “House of Cards”, which now seems small and tame compared to reality.

479
WhatEVs  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:30:59pm

re: #369 freetoken

CBS. Live stream at CBSN.

Thanks. I thought it was on Fox.

480
EPR-radar  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:31:13pm

re: #473 Dark_Falcon

He can’t force the Senate to do anything. He can appoint someone, but he can’t make the Senate Judiciary Committee hold a hearing or vote on that nomination.

I’d like to see Obama come up with a nomination of someone that is thoroughly qualified, young, and too sane to make it through the Senate.

Let the Congressional Republicans expose themselves for what they are.

481
Belafon  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:33:39pm

re: #473 Dark_Falcon

He can’t force the Senate to do anything. He can appoint someone, but he can’t make the Senate Judiciary Committee hold a hearing or vote on that nomination.

Nope, but by the very act of appointing, he is forcing them to make a choice. Not choosing is a choice, and he, and other Democrats, can call them out on that.

482
ObserverArt  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:36:12pm

re: #456 Dark_Falcon

If Hillary Clinton wins, then that’s a different story and she’ll be entitled to appoint a qualified person. Like Graham said, let the next president decide.

What is legal Dark? How about conservatives try to allow legal?

You know McConnell and Graham would be naming a conservative judge before the first shovel of dirt is on top of Scalia if the situation was reversed.

483
Barefoot Grin  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:36:57pm

re: #320 PhillyPretzel

lol. It is the Supreme Court. The President can nominate whom he chooses. As to being confirmed that is another story.

A woman named Harriet, for example.

484
EPR-radar  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:40:04pm

re: #482 ObserverArt

What is legal Dark? How about conservatives try to allow legal?

You know McConnell and Graham would be naming a conservative judge before the first shovel of dirt is on top of Scalia if the situation was reversed.

The legal technicalities of SCOTUS appointments are pretty much the worst possible grounds to pick a fight against RWNJ obstructionism on.

The Constitution is pretty simple here. The president nominates, and the Senate decides whether or not to confirm. That’s it. Legally the Senate can do whatever the hell it wants to.

The only possible repercussions for GOP obstructionism are political, which is why it will be good for Obama to make a prudent appointment and let the Senate act.

485
Pawn of the Oppressor  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:42:26pm

re: #383 Charles Johnson

[Embedded content]

Chic - Le Freak (Freak Out) A OLD SCHOOL CLASSIC

486
Dark_Falcon  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:42:34pm

Heading upstairs…

487
HappyWarrior  Feb 13, 2016 • 4:47:44pm

re: #456 Dark_Falcon

If Hillary Clinton wins, then that’s a different story and she’ll be entitled to appoint a qualified person. Like Graham said, let the next president decide.

Why? Obama’s got nearly an entire year left. Stop being a partisan hack because that’s what this is all about. Your party had two chances to prevent Obama from being elected and they failed both times. I don’t want to hear your party’s leaders accuse him of not working with them when they pull shit like this.

488
Backwoods_Sleuth  Feb 13, 2016 • 5:56:09pm

re: #165 I Stand With Planned Parenthood

I know.

Machetes murders are not uncommon. I think it’s strange because it is not a tool that is used in this country.

Hammer Murders would make more sense to me.

I have a machete.
It’s a tool I use fairly often here on the farm.


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