[Torie]

It was just the first shot. The plan always included the resignation, but what the Dems felt they needed was resignation plus Lautenberg on the ballot, and the Torch wasn't cooperating. Thus the Dems had to manufacture an ersatz musical chairs routine to show the Torch that they tried to find someone he didn't hate, but failed.

[ChipShot]

Sorry I am late to this thread, but I heard on the radio news a few hours ago that Lautenburg was holding out for the Dims to promise him his old level of seniority. I guess they caved and I am sure the Torch is having second thoughts.