What the Dems should say:

In the most sober, statesmanlike voice, Pat Leahy should tell the American people:

As the President has said, there is an ongoing criminal investigation involving his office, and the Vice President's office.

Until we know all the facts about this very serious matter, it would not be appropriate to move forward on the President's judicial appointment.

Once we know all the facts, and the White House is cleared of involvement in this matter of vital National Security, that will be the appropriate time to review the President's choice for the highest court in the land.

Until such a time as this ongoing criminal investigation involving the White House is concluded, we believe it would be irresponsible to advance the confirmation process.

Oh, and Cheney?

Go fuck yourself.

Seriously, they need to start playing hardball. The Repubs would do this if the roles were reversed, with looks of extreme concern and piety knitting their reptilian brows.

Now it's time for us to play their game.

With this nominee, Bush is trying to change the national subject from Rove to abortion. They feel they have the moral upper hand if the nation is talking about abortion, even if the majority supports abortion rights.

We cannot let him change the subject.