Supreme Court Turnover Begins

There have been no changes in the Supreme Court for a decade. All of the justices are getting old, and many are suffering from ailments associated with the aging process. It was inevitable that someone would soon retire from the Court. Some speculated early in Bush's first term that he could possibly appoint three new justices during his tenure. He gets his first one now that Sandra Day O'Connor announced her retirement. At 75, she has good reason to retire, but she was not expected to be first to leave. Chief Justice, William Rehnquist, maintains his post despite having thyroid cancer. But there is still time for him to step down before Bush leaves office.

The nomination process will show government working effectively and efficiently to replace O'Connor with a moderate who judges by the law. Yeah, right. This will be a bitterly fought battle over a seat that can swing many controversial decisions. Republicans and Democrats will rip each other apart. As with Bush's other judicial nominees, the process will likely stagnate before the Senate can vote to confirm or deny the appointee.

Here's to the downfall of government as it should be--Of the people, by the people, and for the people.