Feingold also disses Senate deal
Conservatives weren't the only ones who expressed deep disappointment
with yesterday's last-minute filibuster deal. Liberal Wisconsin senator
Russ Feingold also thought it was unacceptable, saying it would allow
for more judicial nominees "who lack the judicial temperament or record
to serve in these lifetime positions."
Here's the statement
"This is not a good deal for the U.S. Senate or for the American
people. Democrats should have stood together firmly against the
bullying tactics of the Republican leadership abusing their power as
they control both houses of Congress and the White House. Confirming
unacceptable judicial nominations is simply a green light for the Bush
administration to send more nominees who lack the judicial temperament
or record to serve in these lifetime positions. I value the many
traditions of the Senate, including the tradition of bipartisanship to
forge consensus. I do not, however, value threatening to disregard an
important Senate tradition, like occasional unlimited debate, when
necessary. I respect all my colleagues very much who thought to end
this playground squabble over judges, but I am disappointed in this
deal."