O'Connor to Resign

The anticipated Senate (uh, political) battle over appointment of a new Supreme Court justice begins. The catalyst, however, was not the retirement of Chief Justice William Rehnquist (80), who is in ill health, but Sandra Day O'Connor (75), the first woman to sit on the Supreme bench. For the first time in 11 years, a President has an opportunity to shape the court. Moreover, O'Connor often provided a swing vote, meaning replacing her potentially has far-reaching impact. Only two of the nine justices were appointed by Democratic administrations.

For the next week, while President Bush is in Europe, expect hyperbole, attacks and counter-attacks from the left and the right. Will the President nominate a moderate? Will the Democrats in the Senate filibuster the nomination? Will Senator Frist launch his "nuclear option"? Stay tuned.

Tags: O'Connor, Politics, SCOTUS, Senate