DeWine Says No Extraordinary Circumstances

Senator Mike DeWine just stated on Fox News that he does not believe that Judge Alito falls into the "extraordinary circumstances" envisioned by the Gang of 14. He also said that he did not think that there would be a filibuster, but that if there were, it is likely that, at the least, both he and Lindsay Graham would vote for the Constitutional Option to shut down the filibuster.

More Good News on the Alito Nomination

Looks like the gay lobby doesn't like the thought of Judge Alito on the Supreme Court. As Martha Stewart would say, this is a good thing.

A First for the Third

Howard Bashman reports that Judge Alito is the first judge serving on the Third Circuit to be nominated for the Supreme Court. If any of the esteemed men and women who now sit or have sat on the Third Circuit is qualified and deserving, Judge Alito is.

Mark Levin on Alito

Mark Levin comments here on Bench Memos with regard to the Altio nomination and the fight ahead. As usual, Mr. Levin hits the nail squarely on the head. Let the battle begin. And to the Left -- Bring it on!

Matt Still AWOL

Nomination announced, and still nothing from Drudge. What gives?

PoliPundit Does the Math

PoliPundit has posted an interesting analysis of the likely roll call vote. I think its likely Judge Alito garners a few more votes than Poli suggests, but the analysis is interesting nonetheless, and I agree with the bottom line conclusion that confirmation is virtually assured. Hat tip to Michelle Malkin.

Where's Matt?

Its almost announcement time. Where on earth is Drudge?

Hewitt Comes Out Strong

Hewitt Comes Out Strong

Two Additional Thoughts at This Early Juncture

First, this nomination clearly bumps the Libby indictemtn out of the news for the forseeable future. Second, and belatedly, congratulations, Judge.

Alito Profile from AP

The Associated Press has put up this moderately interesting profile of the nominee.

Here's Fox News on the Nomination

Story here.

Thumb in the Eye

Looks like the President just stuck his thumb in Harry Reid's eye. Thank you, Mr. President. Your base will fight to the death on this one.

CNN Has the Same Story

Looks like its Alito. This is a great pick, and a great day for the President, the Supreme Court and the nation. I'll have a lot more on this in the days and weeks ahead.

Justice Alito!

AP is reporting that Alito is the pick (hat tip to K-Lo at Bench Memos).