SCOTUS Watch: Dems Want In

The Associated Press reports that Senate Democrats have sent a letter to President Bush urging him to consult with them over any prospective Supreme Court nominees, saying in part "The way to avoid the divisiveness and discord that occurred over past judicial nominations is through consensus and cooperation in the selection of future candidates." Senator Chuck Schumer announced the existence of the letter Thursday on the Senate floor: it is signed by 43 Democrats and Independent Jim Jeffords; the only non-signer, Senator Robert Byrd, is apparently planning to send his own letter to Bush.

I don't see any problem at all with this suggestion. Consultation with the Senate was one of the recommendations backed by the Gang of 14 when they announced their compromise back in May, and while I don't expect this White House will be interested in anything of the sort, it would certainly be a healthy and probably productive action for the Administration to take.

A recommendation as well, via Simon in a comment below: The Supreme Court Nomination Blog has been set up to monitor any vacancies that occur. I've bookmarked it, and will be checking in regularly.