Dear Democratic US Senators
Senator John Kerry, backed by Senator Kennedy, has called for a filibuster of Judge Alito, on the grounds that he will push the court on an extremist path. Many of you agree, and plan to vote against Judge Alito. Some of you disagree with your party's leaders, and plan to support Judge Alito.
Well, I would like to speak, as a citizen of this country and a supporter of your party, to those who currently do not plan to support the filibuster. I hope you understand that a vote against cloture is not a vote in support of a filibuster, it's simply a vote to not shut up those who wish to continue speaking. If Senator Kerry and Kennedy believe they have a fight in them, and want to take this burden on their shoulders...please let them. You do not have to stand up and speak. You do not have to do anything, and that is exactly what I urge you to do. Just stay in your seat. Not voting is exactly the same as a no vote, but come November, you will be able to defend yourself by saying you weren't supporting either side, you were simply not making the decision to give up for your fellow senators.
If 41 Democrats dislike Mr. Alito enough to vote no on his nomination, then there is no excuse to not let those willing to fight do so. It won't hurt your re-election. And by god, maybe Kerry and company have enough fight in them to win this damn one.
Thank you