[nfldgirl]

I have a question and would appreciate any-n-all Freeper feedback (and I've not read this thread so am not sure if the answer is already been posted, so please bear with me.)

If the Democrats continue to say that they are NOT filibustering the nomination, then why doesn't the Republican MAJORITY -- the one that's supposed to lead the Senate's business -- call for the vote on Estrada. If the DEMs are NOT filibustering, then there's no reason why they can't call for an up-or-down vote and be done with this. On the other hand, if they are filibustering, then why aren't the Republicans forcing them to come right out with it and get it on the record that the DEMs are, in fact, filibustering this nominee? (Appreciate any help on getting me straight with this.)

[Cordova Belle]

Your hit the nail on the head. That is the question everyone should be asking

NOTE--re:Freeping FRIST via email---
I spoke with very nice young man in Frist's local (Memphis) office. While emails are ok, he says that they receive so many a day, you have a MUCH better chance of getting attention by making a phone call or fax. I've done both
Here are Frist's numbers. (Email all begins to run together after a while. Phone or fax more effective.)

FRIST DC OFFICE:
Phone:202-224-3344 FAX: 202-228-1264

IN TENNESSEE:

Sen. Bill Frist local Memphis office: 901-683-1910
Faxes: Memphis office: 901-683-3610)

Sen. Lamar Alexander: 202-224-4944

Four Democratic senators who need Freepin:

ARKANSAS:

Sen Blanche Lincoln (D-AR) 202-224-4843

Sen Mark Pryor(D-AR) 202-224-2353

LOUISIANA:

Sen Mary Landrieiu (D-LA) 202-224-5824

Sen John Breaux (D-LA) 202-224-4623

[maica]

If the Democrats continue to say that they are NOT filibustering the nomination, then why doesn't the Republican MAJORITY -- the one that's supposed to lead the Senate's business -- call for the vote on Estrada. If the DEMs are NOT filibustering, then there's no reason why they can't call for an up-or-down vote and be done with this. On the other hand, if they are filibustering, then why aren't the Republicans forcing them to come right out with it and get it on the record that the DEMs are, in fact, filibustering this nominee? (Appreciate any help on getting me straight with this.)

---

It requires a 'unanimous consent' to then put a motion up for a vote. Every time Hatch, as chairman, asks for unanimous consent for the senate to vote on the nomination of Miguel Estrada, a Dem Senator objects. The Senate requires a majority of 60 votes to override this refusal to allow 'unanimous consent.'

The Republicans do not want to establish the precedent of requiring 60 votes to get any future judges voted on. So they are forcing the Democrats to keep refusing to allow the vote by a simple majority.

Hope that explanation helps.