It is weaker. Therefore, expect Bush to nominate an acceptable SC candidate to the screamers, but to exert his independence from them in another area of policy.
There will be ample opportunity over the next three years to do that.
It's beginning to look like no nominee but Janice Rogers Brown will be acceptable to some.
Bush is only weaker now, because he chose to be. He can change that perception anytime he wants to. He just has to WANT TO.