OUTPOST

For the past couple on months here at outpost we have been following closely Obama’s endeavor to replace Justice John Paul Stevens. We followed the nomination process and when Elena Kagan secured the nomination we examined her record but this week the republicans get their chance to question her record. Kagan’s Senate hearing opens today (but she will not be asked questions until tomorrow). At this hearing the republicans are expected to ask some tough questions, most likely focusing on her inexperience and the fact that she has never been a judge. Democrats have already suggested that Republicans have little ammunition against this relatively conservative nominee; however the Republicans may yet pull something out of their hat. Barring such a dramatic event Kagan should be confirmed before lawmakers begin their August recess. Despite this the next couple of days will be testing for Kagan and we should get a much improved sense of the kind of Justice Kagan will be.  We will keep you up-to-date with all the developments.