(thread) We're watching history unfold, in a raw and urgent way. A retiring Republican senator dramatically changes the trajectory of a Supreme Court nomination as his sometime foil/POTUS looks on from 1600. A majority leader instantly cornered and facing the Q: plow fwd or not?
Now, McConnell has to figure out whether he can somehow get Collins and Murkowski to agree to a vote soon. But top sources say that's unlikely. So the next week becomes another pressure cooker as both sides debate/bicker over the scope over whatever steps are taken by the FBI.
Flake is a complicated figure. His friends say he's trying to protect GOP and the Court by making sure the FBI box is checked, and they think if Kavanaugh emerges fine from that, he may even win over some red state Ds.. but other Rs argue Flake knows he's all but dooming the nom
The possible week delay adds the variable of the president's fury with Flake and the stalled process. Whatever Trump says/does could complicate the fragile whip count. “Somebody has got to explain this to Trump, I guess that will be my job!” Sen. Lindsey Graham told reporters.
Even w/ Murkowski on board with Flake, McConnell could still bring it to a floor vote. He has that option, could see how they react. But Mitch M. is not a big risk taker. The kind of guy who knows answers to every Q he asks. So, the vote looks to be delayed, pending probe.
