Roberts To Get Free Pass?

Not to sound critical, but I believe Judge Roberts will get a largely free pass in the debate and vote in the Senate. Even if one or two Republicans vote against him (Specter or Chafee), I think enough Democrats are satisified by his side-step in the hearings on issues like abortion that they’ll let him through. Why? Well, Katrina played a role, to be sure, as the country’s attention moved to disaster recovery. But it’s also respect for Rehnquist (whom Roberts clerked for), and the notion that there’s still O’Connor’s seat to fill when Roberts takes over as Chief Justice.

My prediction? Around 73-75 votes in favor unless the liberals throw a fit, in which case I’d guess 65-67 in favor.