[jammer]

Well, there are two points you make. The second, with respect to vacancies, is a debate for another time. Your first, I agree with. I'm not sure that the "advise and consent" clause contemplated the shennanigans found now or, even, the process that is set up.

[Congressman Billybob]

"Advise and Consent" from the beginning in 1789, has meant that a majority of the Senators must concur. It has always meant that, and nothing different. Compare with the ratification of treaties (in the same clause in the Constitution). On treaties the Senate must approve by two-thirds, because the Constitution says so, on that issue.

Billybob