The main argument against the filibuster is that our Republican friends, along with their liberal media, will try convince the entire universe that Democrats are cursed (pronounced "cur-SAID") obstructionists. But, what's wrong with being a cursed obstructionist if you passionately believe in the fundamental significance of your obstruction? Nothing...but that's a very high bar to jump.
And, how would you convince the universe that obstruction is critically important at this time in human history? You make a visible and significant sacrifice. A personal sacrifice which is difficult, even painful. How about a real, old-fashioned filibuster?
Think about it. Get 35-30 Senators to bring cots into their offices, and rotate in 2-3 hour shifts, 24/7. Hell, they could keep it running for days, even weeks. The networks would be into it in a big way. The sight of the sacrifice these Senators make, while they try to outdo each other with rhetorical tours de force--I have to believe this would capture the American imagination.
Wake up to reality, you say.
But, did you hear any of the deliberations of the Senate Judiciary Committee today? It was impressive. It was like a heavyweight boxing match, and our side was quite impressive.
I say get Ted Kennedy, and Russ Feingold, and Barack Obama, and, yes, Dianne Feinstein, out there to remind our citizenry WHY this vote is so important that they're willing to stand up on national television looking less than their best. Remind them of the reasons why this country was created! And to remind them of how things have gone from so good to so bad so quickly. And that this Justice wants to give El Presidente MORE power! And, why this could be lethal for our dream, our system of government.
I don't know. Maybe I'm dreaming, but it feels like we need something big now.
