“having a republican president does carry huge benefits. Judges, US attorneys, etc.”
Oh really? If that Republican president has no principles, what makes you think that he will appoint the “right” judges and US attorneys? A liberal one who “works across the aisle” might appoint 1 conservative and 1 liberal judge...or he might not think that’s such an important thing, and nominate an unknown like Suter, the equivalent of throwing the dice. In a 4-3 court, with many Constitutional rights on the chopping block, that’s no longer good enough.
You know it’s pretty infuriating to read people’s comments that a republican president isn’t important for judges. Souter was an out and out mistake not deliberate.
You want to trade in Scalia, Roberts, Alito and Thomas? Maybe for more Ginzburgs and Soto Mayors?
Puleeeeze back to Planet Earth, ok?