Murkowski Wants a Compromise

Republican Senator Lisa Murkowski of Alaska writes in the Fairbanks Daily News-Miner that while she "support[s] an up-or-down vote on all nominations brought to the Senate floor, regardless of the president nominating them or which party controls the Senate," the blame game over "which side has stopped judges in the past"

"misses the point of where we are today. The argument shouldn't be about whether we invoke the constitutional option, or 'go nuclear,' but how we make the confirmation process work. We need to act together as senators to define what is best for the institution. Constructive dialogue over how we achieve the goal - a fair process to confirm fair judges - is necessary."

For Alaska, she writes, the stakes are high. "Alaska has a tremendous opportunity this year in the Senate in terms of developing our resources, our economy, and our future. None of this, however, will matter much if the Senate is locked in partisan wrangling over judicial nominations." [While part of what she's talking about is opening ANWR, a step with which I strongly disagree, at least she's making the point].

Murkowski: "I remain committed to a constructive solution and have encouraged Senate leaders on both sides of the aisle to find another way - to allow for an up-or-down vote on judicial nominees while respecting the traditions of the U.S. Senate. It is my sincere hope that we will be able to reach a compromise to enact legislation to stimulate our economy, protect national security, and promote the national welfare, and to provide advice and consent, and to vote on the president's nominations."

Senator, talk to Harry Reid. He made the offer. And then talk to Bill Frist. He should accept it.

[Tip to National Journal for the link to Murkowski's op/ed].