THREAD. 1/I worked in the Senate for 20+ years and handled hundreds of nominations as a Senate committee counsel. I was a nominee myself, and was confirmed for a job at DoD, in 2014. I've known many friends who were also nominees.
2/"Advice/consent" is not defined further in the Constitution. Over the centuries, the Senate has developed its own rules/customs. Some of these customs are arbitrary and/or seemingly unfair. But they are part of a constitutional process.
3/Nominees are expected to adhere to certain norms. Don't talk publicly except at a hearing. Answer the questions from senators. Wait patiently, sometimes for weeks or months, while investigations occur, or simply for a committee chair or Majority Leader to schedule action.
4/Also, don't complain (at least
publicly) that the process is not fair. Sometimes, it isn't. But that's life, and life isn't always fair.
5/The SCOTUS nominee has broken many of these norms. He gave a TV interview. He complained bitterly to the senators that he was being unfairly treated. He gave evasive answers. He even tried to turn senators' questions back on them.
6/In other words, he betrayed contempt for a constitutional process (while stating fealty to the Constitution).
7/Quite apart from the credible allegations by Dr. Ford, his lack of respect for the constitutional process, combined with the partisan bias and intemperance manifested yesterday, calls into question his fitness to serve on the bench.
8/Senators don't have to believe Dr. Ford (though I do) to have seen this yesterday. It was as plain as day. For the good of the country and the Court, I hope enough Senate Rs will convey this message to the WH, and ask POTUS to submit another nominee.
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