The donation to Gore was brought up by a reporter, not by Reid. I saw the exchange when he was standing with Ms. Miers on Monday. As for the probabtive value of the donation, I think it's negligible - but not because I believe your assertion that the donation was "by the firm." Individual donors are required to disclose the name of their employer.
I also don't mistake Senator Reid's statements as supportive of her becoming a Supreme Court Justice. He said she was not on the "must filibuster" list, and went on to deliver a summary of her career, as well as noting that she is very personable, and that she promptly answers telephone messages. His "support" of the nomination has no substance, yet.
However, looks like his ploy is working with many, many who claim to be on our side.
Conservatives don't need any help from Reid to split. The vast majority of FR posts are superficial criticisms and comments, and don't reflect how any issue will be resolved on the merits. That is, I think the "split" perceived here is also superficial and/or fleeting. What matters is the votes on election day; and any influence active constituents (read "$$$$$" and votes) have with their Senators on the confirmation matter.
I didn't say we would be united if not for Harry Reid. But his specific ploy is working at the moment.
The evidence is in the constant quoting of Harry Reid's supposed support of Miers as absolute proof that Bush has betrayed us all. The further implication is that Bush is dumb. If not a Lefty himself, Bush would have to be dumber than a rock to get his pick from Harry Reid, and that is exactly what he he being accused of by many on the "right".
This is becoming la la land. Like the land of the Left. It has now infected many of us. Ad nauseum, ad nauseum, ad nauseum. It is everywhere. You can't look up without seeing it or listen without hearing it.