I just had a thought

Perhaps the reason Frist is bringing up the Nuclear option on Judicial Nominations is a negotiating tactic. No objections to the electorial vote from the dems, no nuclear option from the rethugs.

I think you've put your finger on it. I still wonder whether the Pubbies are so intoxicated with their current success that they will sell out their own future. Elections come, elections go. The filibuster rule has protected minority rights in the Senate for over 100 years. Some of those minorities were truly repugnant, like the Dixiecrats filibustering Civil Rights legislation in the 1950's. But cooler heads always prevailed -- looking forward to the next Presidency, the next time the other guys were in the majority.

It's almost like watching a cobra stalk itself in the mirror. Will it strike out and bite itself? Won't it?

If the Pubbies trash the filibuster rule, there will be no reason for the Dem's to make any deals. Pure obstruction.

And when the Dem's are in the majority, there's the payback.

Threats, counterthreats.

:wtf:

could be something positive along the same lines.
I.e., if the Repugs do something about health care, Kerry won't contest this election. It is interesting the way the 2 issues were juxtaposed in his little video. ;)