Reply #28: Differences with Kerry's call for the filibuster [View All]

There is the obvious similarity in which both Kerry and Feingold could come under attack for pursuing a fight which was bound to be voted down in which they might gain personally by increasing support among the party base.

There are also two major differences. Kerry was on record as saying he would lead a filibuster against a Supreme Court nominee who would overturn Rowe v. Wade. Kerry was keeping his word here.

Another difference for Kerry was that it was then or never. He couldn't wait until after the midterm elections, when Democrats are likely to pick up seats, and attack Alito at that time. It had to be done before the confirmation battle if it was to ever be done. Feingold could have criticized Bush for breaking the law and urged hearings, but could have called for the actual censure vote after more groundwork was done for this. There was no need to do this now. It is also curious that it is the same week as his NY Times Magazine cover story, giving the appearance that his goal might have been more to dominate the news personally this week.