Supreme Court vetting moving quickly - Obama already closely involved. (CNN)

Supreme Court vetting moving quickly
Posted: 05:58 PM ET

From CNN Supreme Court Producer Bill Mears

WASHINGTON (CNN) — The search for a new Supreme Court justice is moving ahead quickly at the White House with senior staff ready to begin paring down a list of finalists to less than half a dozen candidates, two sources with knowledge of the selection process tell CNN.

President Obama could begin meeting with some of the potential nominees as early as this weekend, said the sources, who spoke to CNN on the condition of anonymity. White House spokesman Robert Gibbs indicated earlier this week those meetings had not yet begun.

Since the candidates would have already had pre-screening interviews with staff led by the White House Counsel's Office, the Obama meetings would most likely not be a grilling about constitutional philosophy, but rather friendly chats, the sources said.

Unlike many past presidents, Obama is already closely involved in the selection process, given his background as a constitutional law professor, the sources said. Vice President Joe Biden is also playing a key role, given his long service on the Senate Judiciary Committee, which will hold the nomination hearings.

After face-to-face meetings, Obama would offer his initial thoughts and may seek for more information, or possibly ask to speak with more candidates. Sources close to the process, said the president will also likely reach outside his inner circle and members of Congress, to get the views of independent legal types. One such person mentioned is Charles Ogletree, a longtime respected professor at Harvard Law School, and a mentor to Obama.

While some administration officials hope for an announcement by Memorial Day, sources tell CNN that a small, senior group of White House officials are taking a careful, meticulous approach, looking closely at each candidate's qualifications.

<SNIP>

http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2009/05/06/supreme-court-vetting-moving-quickly/

I do hope that someone pulls the tax records of whoever this might be, so as not to have another hiccup.

drive the right nuts, especially Orrin who wants a decision made immediately so the right will have something to b*$% and moan about.

He's retiring in June. Honestly, we can wait.

could any team be better suited to choose a magnificent SCOTUS Justice?

I hope they stand strong on the so called wedge issues, though, especially equal rights for all people. Elections have consequences, none more long lasting than judicial appointments.