The focus will soon shift to President Bush's next appointee to the high court. We have no doubt that President Bush will select a nominee who embraces his judicial philosophy of interpreting the Constitution - not legislating from the bench. The political dynamics suggest that the confirmation process for the next nominee will be much more contentious. We hope that isn't the case, but are certainly prepared to move quickly and aggressively to ensure that the next nominee gets a fair hearing and a prompt vote in the Senate.

This has got the whole conservative base really excited and enthused,

It's not as if they don't have a shortlist here -- they do. I expect there will be quick movement,

It's encouraging that several Democrats recognized his talents and capabilities by voting for his confirmation. At the same time, though, it's unfortunate that others chose to politicize a confirmation process by trying to turn it into some sort of election.

This is a disappointing decision that is likely to result in a troubling movement by states to pass their own assisted suicide laws.

This is the front-line abortion case in the country.

This is the frontline abortion case in the country.

This is an important moment in the confirmation process but it is unfortunate that the Democrats on the Judiciary Committee put partisan politics first in their vote today.

Reagan appointees are now getting to retirement age and a lot of them are retiring, and you've got the Clinton-Gore appointees who are in their prime.

I've argued cases in the Supreme Court and they'll ask you a question for a minute and a half and you'll think it's a day long. So it's tough.