Schatz and Hirona are right. The Senate has destroyed a process when the Dems filibustered this nominee.  The poor sports just can't understand they lost, so they must obstruct at every turn. Although Ginsberg was the total opposite of conservative ideology the Republicans voted for her appointment believing the President had the right to appoint his nominee. Kagan and Sotomayor faced the same situation and again were appointed with Republican support. Only the Dems can't play well in the sandbox.  The Dems consistently set their own rules to suit them, but when Republicans attempt to follow these same rules  Dems cry foul. As was the case with Obama's last nominee. The "Biden" rule that Supreme Court nominees should not be voted on during a Presidential election season was fine when there was a Republican President but horrors when there was a Democrat President. The Dems refuse to cooperate for the better of the country. Instead obstruct for what purpose? Elections have consequences!