CNN

[...] CNN: WASHINGTON (CNN) – A Republican National Committee official tells CNN the party will strike a "fair" tone towards federal appeals judge Sonia Sotomayor, President Obama's pick to fill Justice David Souter's seat on the Supreme Court. [...]

To be fair, there are appoximately 0.996 men for every 1.000 women in the US. Perhaps you should find something other than "minority" to express your view that they are oppressed.

"One can even become a Republican is they choose to be. It's not hard to do but one must study hard and always strive to be the best they can be."

Cute.I guess you're referring to "C" student Bush vs. our current President, who by the way agrees that we just don't rank in the area of education with other industrialized "first-world" (my words) nations.

I do agree with you,however, that many students just don't apply themselves to succeed. But having studied here and abroad I stand by my original statement vis-a-vis the curriculum.

Thanks for participating.

I'm ok with her as long as she's not seen on P.R Independence Day riding around town holding a P.R flag through an open car window with the car horn blaring away.

Fair??? The GOP hates minorities. A Woman, a Hispanic, a working Mother....she doesn't stand a chance with the GOP Senators.....they hate this type of qualified, expereinced Nominee.

the repubs "fair"???? I will believe THAT when I see it..!!

Race and gender aside, the percentage of her decisions overturned (and not just by 5-4 votes either) makes me wonder if this was the best candidate to put forward, or the candidate to send a message.

Go to "The Hill" web site to read the RNC accidental release of the "talking points" for members. It was released as Pres. Obama was introducing Sonia Sotomayor as his nomination to the Supreme Court. All they had to do was insert the name!! Marlene in Mich

7 sitting GOP senators confirmed her when GHWB appointed her to the Circuit Court. The Dems only need 2 to block a filibuster. Unless we see some serious party-line-toeing, she's getting confirmed. I feel bad for her though, because I can guarantee you her entire private life is going to be eviscerated by the GOP and they're going to do everything they can to slander her with even the most minute, out-of-context quotes, etc. I wouldn't be suprised to see them yammering excitedly in session about something like a a 4th grade essay because she said something about the racism in this country being unfair. How far will they dig? Anyone's guess...but they should keep in mind it might not be Obama or Sotomayor that gets buried in the hole.

We have idetified the problem here, it is of no concern to the RNC what so ever as to who goes before the Senate for confirmation. according to a RNC spokesman, the party will strike a "fair" tone towards federal appeals judge Sonia Sotomayor,

Last time I checked it was up to the elected members of the US Senate not the party, this is the problem in Washington today. Come on guys, do the job you were elected to do without party influence. If you can not make a decision on your own lets find some Senators that can think for themselves after being elected.

@ Ron from CG:

By the way, have you noticed how generally speaking these students from India, Asia et al outperform native students in the U.S. Even with the disadvantage in a lot of cases of having to learn a new language in this country. Think that might have " a little something" to do with the educational preparation, and discipline they obtained in their native land?

When you look deeply at our system of education you will find there is nothing wrong with it. Look at the many that come from all over the world to attend our schools. They come here to learn and they do. The American students are the problem. Many, if not most do not care about using our system to learn even when they see students from other countries learning.

When one wants to learn, he or she will learn if given the opportunity. One can learn and grow from the ranks of the poor to become anything they can dream to be. One can even become a Republican is they choose to be. It's not hard to do but one must study hard and always strive to be the best they can be.

Why does everything have to be about RACE AND NOW GENDER. Americans should look at her RESUME first then start to B__ch. Was she the most qualified person should be the questions. This is not about she is, ok let's say DOUBLE MINORITY, A WOMAN AND NON CAUCASION OR WHITE. REPUBLICAN

"Fair"

GOP Translation: It's your turn to be Borked.

Have a nice demise GOP.

@Ron from CG:

I stand by my statement to TCM. There are any number of reasons why people from other countries come here to study (finances specialization, easier to obtain degree here!), it does NOT have a direct correlation to the rigorousness of the curriculum here in the U.S. Want to put it to the test? Try to "test out" here vs. in any one of those countries you mentioned.Teachers in my country of birth have no qualms about failing you over, and over, and over. You either perform academically or you can find yourself being a 16 year old still in 8th grade.
But , thanks for asking.

I believe the Right wing will do everything in their power to demean this woman but she will eventually be confirmed. It's simple math. 59 (or 60) Democratic Senators along with Olympia Snowe and Susan Collins, moderate Republicans from Maine will rule the day. Think Ms. Sotomayor is highly qualified, highly capable and very fair minded (in the true sense of the word). I wish her well in what will certainly be a very difficult time in her life.

the antichrist and his liberal pick

@ Andi, who said "should remember what your parents said to you as a child when you used that logic."

Perhaps that pinpoints the problem...after all, they had to have gotten their inflated sense of righteous entitlement to govern from somewhere.

@ New Yorker, who said "Unfortunately the liberals don't know what "fair" is. You see to them, "fair" is having someone else pay your way because you don't "feel" like it."

This highlights a fundamental flaw in the GOP's reasoning. It works well enough for riling their base, but it echoes hollow in the halls of reality. So sorry, but acting as thoughevery single person in the country who is unemployed during this recession is suffering because it's their own darn fault...that's a sure fire way to get yourself ignored.

Excellent Choice Mister President!!!

Now let's watch even more Latino and Women voters, and their families distance themselves from the party of 'NO'. The repubs will start their attack on Justice Sotomayor with no other reason besides that they 'fear' her, because she doesn't look like them.

@James M. Holmes May 26th, 2009 11:47 am ET

The most interesting thing to me will be if the GOP exposes it's hypocracy again!

Remember the cries for an "up or down vote" from the GOP when Bush was putting Alito on the bench?

Anyone want to bet they prove themslves to be hypocrites once again and try to fillerbuster this selection?
------–

Let the chickens come home to roost! the dems started the filibuster threat. The true hypocrisy will be from left-wingers who cry "foul" when its used against them.

@ R in Maine, who said "And the Repubs now have a chance to piss off the largest "minority" in the country. "

Nothing new therestopped them for the past decade. As it is, they've managed to turn the word "illegal" into a perjorative noun.

I see, so, it's 'payback' time for the GOP to right all the wrongs they feel were done to them during the conf. hearings for Bush's picks. Awesome. What a way to govern. And all you GOP supporters who use the 'well they did it to us, so we get to do it back to them' should remember what your parents said to you as a child when you used that logic.

Will the Republicans have enough time to spend on these hearings? I know they are really busy trying to rename the opposing party and redo their party's image, and all, but this is kind of important. GET BACK TO WORK, GOP and DO SOMETHING for the people who elected you! And please, quit with the 'be afraid, be very afraid' rhetoric. This is the home of the Brave, not the home of the Scared because the GOP told us we should be.

All the RNC really means is that it wouldn't have both six gun's blazing in its assault on the Supreme Court and its efforts to work against the President's choice! Some fairness as we know it from the Republicans!

"RNC will strike 'fair' tone towards Sotomayor, party official says"

"Fair" as in adult standards? Or "Fair" as in the juvenile junior high world of the goppers? Just wondering which version of "fair" they're using this week.

Unfortunately the liberals don't know what "fair" is. You see to them, "fair" is having someone else pay your way because you don't "feel" like it. "Fair" is giving the less qualified person the job because they are in a minority. "Fair" is letting a mother terminate her baby's life because she had not "planned" on having the baby. "Fair" is enjoying liberty while complaining about the wars fought in order to maintain that liberty. "Fair" is anything but "fair" when you have the thought (?) process of a liberal. But it wouldn't be fair to blame them; it's just not their fault they think the way they do. It must be the fault of the Republicans. Everything must be their fault.

As one who lives in the Bronx (no I'm not hispanic, and I'm a man), I'm inspired already by Judge Sotomayor's story, and rise through the ranks......This is a big day for women, and for the latin community worldwide.
I generally support President Obama, and the direction he is trying to point the country....... I love his emphasis, on health/wellness, energy/environment, & education......I do believe these pillars will only strengthen our country, and allow all who want to, to continue the pursuit of happiness.

President Obama studied and taught Constitutional Law at Harvard. Therefore, I have faith in his ability to determine whether something is Constitutional or not. And that particularly applies to his choice of Sonia Sotomayor for the next Supreme Court Justice of the United States. And after hearing about her experience at the New York Court of Appeals, I particularly think so and hope she is approved overwhelmingly.

Brian, Albany NY May 26th, 2009 10:13 am ET

"Fair" my bony white behind. They'll be just as petty, whiny and racist toward her as they've been toward Obama.
===================================

Sorry Brian,
It's not about race or gender. If it were, the party of tolerance and diversity would have rallied around Clarence Thomas when he was nominated. Instead, he was skewered by those that claim to be champions of the advancement of minorities.

Nope, it's all about ideology! If she's pro-choice, anti-white male and for gay marriage, she's a winner. If she thinks the principles and values set forth in our Constitution are not necessarily relevant, she has friends in Congress in the majority.

I for one am scared of an 'impartial jurist' that feels a Latina, because of her station in life, is more apt to "make a wise decision than a white male."

If you want to talk about racism, there it is for you.

Viva La Raza!

Proud Member..Party of No

What are you smoking? The Democrats have never behaved that way, though the Republicans certainly are. The Republicans should be ashamed of the constant whining that they've done since they lost.

For GOP's own sake let's hope so, because picking on the first Hispanic, and one of only 3 women to ever serve on the court would be devastating for them in the next election.

The GOP needs to realize that they would be much better off to just join Obama in helping the nation get back on its feet instead of constantly obstructing him and looking foolish and cynical in the process.

FactCheck May 26th, 2009 11:34 am ET

These people should be deported, just like ALL other Illegal Aliens.
——–

Considering the fact that you stole this land from the Native Americans, and therefore are here illegally, I can only ask: when will you be packing your bags?

Co-Sign! You reap what you sow. Everyone but the Native Americans are illegal.

@ TCM, Fitz in Texas and all other racists here.....

why is when a woman or minority is picked for a high position it's always due to Affirnitive Action whereas when a white male is picked it's because he's qualified? Just shows how narrow minded folks with your views really are.

Keep up the good work TCM. With that type of talk you will guarantee Democratic Victory in all the years to come.

BTW her resume is located in the political ticker, maybe you want to read it before spewing venon.

@dominican mama 4 Obama

You fail to explain the massive number of Asian, Arabic and Indian students that attend the "sub-par" Universities in the U.S.

@FactCheck

Since hispanics are part European and many Americans are part Native American – your aurgument is pretty useless. Check your facts before you use that name.

It is truly sad but the Repugnats will almost certainly turn this into yet another partisan battle rather than aq fair and non biased confirmation process.

They must truly be terrified of what their chances in the next election are and have decided to do everything possible to cause the rest of us the maximum amount of grief while they still can.

@ RealityKing, who asked "Has Obama even read the constitution??"

Yep. So has the GOP for that matter. I'll even go so far as to say both Obama and the GOP understand it perfectly. The difference is that the GOP hates it and considers it an impediment to their agenda...they want it changed or even obliterated...whereas Obama's agenda is aligned with it and, so far, he's done NOTHING unconstitutional (need we make a list regarding the last 8 years for comparison?). Take a ConLaw class...or maybe read it yourself before you comment on it.

Its all over for the gop,the republicans was praying obama choose a white woman,because if he would have the gop would have destroyed him in the latino cummunity,the word was out the gop was going to go on telemundo in other latino media in label obama prejudice towards latinos,but they cant do that now,the selection means the democrats are going to get at least 75% of the latino vote for years to come,which means the gop cant get back in power. its all over for the gop you can put your money on it,thats why foxnews in the gop didnot want this selection.the gop cannot be seen stopping the first latino to be nominated on the supreme court,it would be devastating.

The most interesting thing to me will be if the GOP exposes it's hypocracy again!

Remember the cries for an "up or down vote" from the GOP when Bush was putting Alito on the bench?

Anyone want to bet they prove themslves to be hypocrites once again and try to fillerbuster this selection?

During her confirmation the first question from the Republicans will be "Do you agree with EVERYTHING our Supreme Leader Rush Limbaugh says". If she says yes she will be confirmed easily. If she says no they will fight her confirmation saying that she is a leftist, activist, socialist, feminist ,abortionist atheist and everyotherist judge. Rush Limbaugh will be the litmust test.

RNC must say that because they know that the pick is a good one and they cannot fault The President for making an excellent choice.
As for the racial remarks by some of the writers please note that the constitution gives equal rights to all and you guys most probably have not even read that piece of work on which the whole of the American Government works so well.

As you'll recall the Republicans never have been fair without debate when it came to selection of a Supreme Court Justice. Now you're wanting to say it was the Democrats. The Democrats very seldom have a choice of replacing a Supreme Court Justice. If they did this America would be a far better place. Fade away Republicans you've had your eight years an we've had our eight years of hell. IT'S OVER>

Trying something entirely new, trying to appear fair. I just hope her health is good enough to be there for a long time. And the Repubs now have a chance to piss off the largest "minority" in the country. Go for it.

Well,
There are a lot of "Intellegent" Comments here. I think P.T. Barnum was right if these posts are a fair representation of the populus out there.

I think it was a brilliant choice of an accomplished woman to replace one of the few women justices on the Supreme Court, as well as the added bonus of the fact that she also happens to be of Hispanic heritage! A wise pick for President Obama, and a good choice historically, nationally, and politically for our country. We are now living up to the words on our Statue of Liberty.

Barbara Campbell – What is an average American? Someone who wants the government to take care of them because they can't or won't do it for themselves? Well then, the average American put their president into office but the above average Americans will do what they can to help people help themselves, and not rely on other people who are paid by working peoples' taxpayer dollars.

I doubt that the RNC can do anything that would strike a fair tone and vetting process. Rove, Limbaugh, and Cheney have proven that the RNC is a club of old, fat, rich boys who don't want their boat rocked.

I am not qualified to determine what's fair and what isn't fair when it comes to picking someone at such a high level in the Justice Department. Therefore I stand with President Obama because he is the person who is more qualified than I will ever be to make the selection.

@ Rob in NC

Just because Obama has taught Constitutional Law doesn't mean he understood or even agrees with the U.S. Constitution. You're probably one of those guys who will never question what a teacher tells you.

What is the Right Wing activist deguise " Independant" lou dobbs is going to say now? I can't wait to watch his stupidity and hate spewing machine toward hispanics or immigrants going after sotomayor.

President Obama could nominate Jesus Christ to the U.S. Supreme Court and the party of “NO” would automatically oppose the nomination. Judge Sotomayor is a great choice. She is not a rich white male or rich white female... the Republicing party has a problem dealing with that!

'Strike a tone that's fair'

Yeah, that's rich, coming from certain individuals in the GOP.

These republicans really can't take what they dished out for 8 years, can they? We've got a population who have wanted fair and balanced for years, and all they got were hand-picked judges/courts/nominees who would give Bush/Cheney anything they wanted without a fuss. We've got a president who's trying to be fair and balanced - that's a far cry from the nonsense we've had for 8 years.

I think the GOP really needs to get a new dictionary because they keep using words they don't know the meanings of.

These people should be deported, just like ALL other Illegal Aliens.
--–

Considering the fact that you stole this land from the Native Americans, and therefore are here illegally, I can only ask: when will you be packing your bags?

I guess that's the difference between a President nominating a "moderate" liberal (Sotomayor) and another President nominating an "extremely partisan" conservative (Roberts.)

Another thought,: Let's wait and see what the RNC means by "fair." Remember, Sotomayor was confirmed to her current seat by the Senate in 1998 in a process that took more than a year.

Has Obama even read the constitution??
----

Considering the fact that he taught Constitutional Law at the University of Chicago and he was the President of the Harvard Law review, I would imagine so.

Have you ever read a book? Or have they not gotten to that part in 2nd grade?

GOP is against anything Obama proposes. Who cares what they think? They've ruined this country at least for the next generation or two...

@ TCM:
I don't know what educational "degree" you hold but I will guarantee you that ANY 5th grader from my country of birth would wipe you out in science and math. Any "foreigner" will tell you that the school curriculum in the U.S. is sub-par at best compared to the ones in other countries.
As to you ignorant comments regarding Latinos,women, and affirmative action let me just say to you: the pool has been lily White long enough, and look where the hell that's got us.
Don't be such an ugly American, learn your history.

@ TCM

Let me be the first to encourage you. Your racism shines like the sun and I can't tell you how good it does my heart to know that you're out there helping to exacerbate the massive damage the GOP continues to inflict upon itself.

TCM.................got to agree with you on this one.

Fair and Balanced?

Sotomayor is an excellent choice. Everybody (including the GOP) should agree.

She will face hard time from the Jewish Judges, who have a very strong Lobby.

Reality King not only has PRESIDENT Obama read the constitution but he also taught it; idiots like yourself are amazing and always uninformed; read something other than the comics

Maybe the the republicans need to give the dumbocrats a taste of their own medicine by throwing a tantrum, whining, crying, holding their breath, filibustering, etc. until they get their way. Of course it won't be as effective without the bleeding-heart media on their side.

Instead of the Democrats and Republicans tearing each other to shreds, maybe we ALL should realize when someone is nominated to the Supreme Court it means that person will be one of 9 who decide the laws of this country. We ALL sound like school children and we should ALL grow up and realize the severity of just what a Supreme Court judge does and also realize the severity of where this country is right now – and as far as I'm concerned, the United States of America is not in a good spot! We are all hurting. Hopefully, Sotomayor will do a good job. I am also hoping she will be fair and balanced and not go too far left or too far right!

This country just celebrated Memorial Day yesterday. How soon we forget how many of our citizens died fighting for us. The "political" agenda has to stop. We ALL must do what is right for the country and each other.

Who is next on the supreme court? An Asian- American or an Indian American or the native Idian americans?
Just a question?

Marlene,
The Bush admin had more minorities and women in real positions of power than any other prior admin. Why would you say such a thing?

From what I just read in these comments seems like the CNN reading dems are the ones full of hate!

Pahleeze the rethugs have been frothing at the mouth for this "fight" for the last three weeks...every other day making threats and and smearing someone who was even decided upon yet. So let them B & M. It will be business as usual. i think what will be entertaining is to see what they complain about.

The GOP will just bury itself further in an already deep hole if it chooses to go after Judge Sotomayor in a partisan fashion. It would really be brilliant for the GOP to further alienate women and Hispanics.

Maybe the GOP should suggest that what we really need are more white, male Catholics on the Supreme Court - now there is a group that has been seriously underrepresented in recent years!

White males have been nominated to the Supreme Court 106 out of 110 times in US History. Even as a white male, I have to say that this is embarassing and needs to change.

This must be killing the repubs,you know they just want to be very critical and attack her.But if they do that they risk losing what hispanic vote they do have.What to do,What to do

Look up her recent ruling on the New Haven firefighters suit. See if you think she follows the rule of law or does what seems politically correct and ignores the law. You decide.

Repubs not Fair....not putting minorities, women to top positions??? Rice, Thomas, Powell, Sandra O'Connor, Gonzales and many more...Are you people that ignorant or simply too bias to see past your little preconceptions. It has been the Dems who tried to blackballed and slander people...Thomas, Bork et al... The repubs will do their job and not simply rubber stamp this nominee but will not stop her taking the job. We do have a need for a opposition party or don't you people realise that? Finally, I love how a number of you have said she is the best candidate for the job....I really doubt ANY of you even knew the lady's name before the nomination. Get real and Read!

The Republicans better not try anything. The Dems let them have Roberts and Alito.

Who cares what Republicans think? They have no credibility whatsoever. Just ignore them.

It was President Bush who appointed her to be a judge, her current position. Plus it was the Democats a few years back who blocked Bush's hispanic Miguel nomonee. It's all political, just as everyone's posts here attacks the parties. You should be looking at the individual and see if that person represents your beliefs. This person does not represent my beliefs.

Demwit: CNN will probably change its liberal tone when FOX changes its right wing tone and becomes fair and balanced, rather than unfair and unbalanced.

Bill

I'm going to repeat the same nonsense political code phrase the Repubs used in 2005 over Alito and Roberts. She deserves an up or down vote in the Senate for approval.

Ahhh... I've been waiting 4 years to throw that back in republicans face. What goes around comes around, haha.

BWA-Ha-Ha! RNC and Fair in the same sentence! That's almost as good as GOP and intelligent in the same sentence!

Obama has just delivered 40 brand new shovels to the Republicans in the Senate and now it only remains to see how deep of a hole they will dig for themselves before the confirmation process is concluded.

Democrats set the precedent of "fairness" with their handling of past Republican nominations. Republicans should follow their example to the letter. Can you spell B-O-R-K????????

Republicans as the "Party of No"? What the heck were the democrats the past 8 years? The party of yes?

Gimme a break. This "Party of No" BS is just that....democrat talking points.

You should say NO when NO needs to be said.

Hey RealityKing, Obama taught CONSITUTIONAL LAW at Harvard you moron – so yeah, I think he's read the Consitution a few times. Have you?

Well the republicans have packed the bench with far out right wing conservatives, robers, alito, scalia and thomas and they would have the nerve to question anyone obama appointed.

They call Sotomayer an activist well have in the heck do you call the good old boy club the republicans have.

@TCM at 11:00pm. What exactly do you mean by African Americans have lead to the decline of the United States....please explain fully and provide proof, please do so immediately lest you be guilty ignorant racism that you claim is perpetrated by others.

Reading over the CNN/Yahoo News and other news sites they've already annointed her. She is scary. Could Obama be any more political? She wants to legislate from the bench!! That is not what supreme court justices do. Obama is a fraud. Claims to be moderate and is similar to Hugo Chavez.

Will be listening to NPR today at work...want to know more about future Justice Sotomayor. A minority female on the highest court, wow. A big "you go girl" shout out to her.

@ TCM......

An African American president picks a Hispanic woman to a predominantly white male court and you call it racism? God forbid if he had picked an African American woman. I guess CNN contiues to post your threads to show just how the ignorant do survuve in this country.

Man, based on the posts I've read so far I've possibly erroneously chosen to be an ingenue in regards to the RepubliKans willingness to be "fair". I truly hope I' m not wrong. I really want to believe that all this sick hatred, racism, and just plain madness is going to wind down as people accept the fact that we have a new President that's not one of the "good 'ole boys" settles in. But God, it's taking an awfully long time for the "dust" of a lost election to settle. I wonder if it ever truly will. Looking at the way they are chewing up Col. Powell I'm not so sure.

Very Good Pick.

At least she does not belong to any Lobby of Judges.

FAIR? Just wait, you'll see what the GOP's idea of "fair" really is.
It will be the hair-on-fire blovatious bleetings of "socialist", "activist", "liberal" and "anti-business" all of which are neocon code for being pro-choice and therefore not worthy of consideration for seating to the SCOTUS.
You will be able to spot the current crop of core pandering, tax cuts for the rich, screw the working middle class union busters that the flat earth type Americans have elected to office count on it...

Last time I checked Judge Roberts is on the Supreme Court, so I guess those road blocks the democrats threw up were more like speed bumps.

RealityKing May 26th, 2009 11:03 am ET

Has Obama even read the constitution??
_______________________________________________________

Being a constitutional scholar, I imagine so. Has Bush ever read a book? What was your point again?

From what I have read, this sounds like a good pick. However I will be VERY surprised if the gop "strike a tone that's fair, that allows the vetting process to happen like it should". Yeah right.

Fair as in: she's a socialist, fascist, baby killing, racist. Just look at the opinions so far on this blog. Despite the fact that most people still don't know anything about her. They just say what Fox News and Rush tell them too.
Republicans don't know the meaning of the word fair. They still believe that if you give tax breaks to rich people the benefits will "trickle" down.

Any time a political party says they will be acting "fair", get your bullet proof vest on fast.

This is going to be ugly and dirty.

This is an easy call. The RNC will not pick a fight with Latino voters. Now had she been African American, I'd hate to think of the chaos that it would hav ocurred even thoough there has been no African American representation on the Supreme Court since Thurgood Marshall

"Fair" isn't in the Republican dictionary.

So what you are really saying is...You haven't been 'fair' all the other times...?

I say let the Republican show their hand in this matter. If it is a fair one, then so be it. But if it is not, I hope all fair minded Independents and Democrats go after the Republicans like never before and cRUSH them completely!

Sure, one of the Republican parties may strike a fair tone. But what about the other Republican parties?

The definition of fairness is relative to who is talking about it.

The nomination should have been for Ernest Borgnine. Left, right, and center all agree he is the clearest choice for the job.

REPUBLICANS may have offered a "fair" tone, but when the Red Flags go up during Vetting/ Confirmation Hearing, ALL GOP had better stand up and take action!!!
obama and his selections and Personal Selections have been historically UNSETTLING and NOT what he's promoted them to be.
Take Notice, Republicans!!
Better Check Out ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION!!!
Being in this Nation Illegally for 25 years UNDETECTED does NOT give these people the RIGHT to STAY.
These people should be deported, just like ALL other Illegal Aliens.

surely all of you that are complaining about the republicans only caring about their party are not so naive as to think that the democrats are the same way!?!?! i hope people will start understanding this soon; NEITHER PARTY CARES ABOUT YOU AND ME!!

Sotmayor is largely unknown outside of legal circles. Both the Republican and Democratic members of the Senate Judiciary Committee owe it to themselves, the Congress, the SC and the rest of the USA to be as fair as they can be towards her. If they are, that is all that can be asked for.

Did she pay her taxes, unlike the majority of the Obama's other nominations?

Its called shooting the foot if the Republicans oppose her. The Hispanics are not fast and quick to forget their friends and enemies Lol.

Repubs might as well give up on New Mexico, Arizona, Denver among a few in 2010 and 2012. Smart move, Smart person, Smart Smart Smart

YES WE CAN

The Grand Old Party of angry white southern white men will oppose this nomination to the bitter end.

Neutral and fair? Not likely. The GOP will ratchet up the toxic partisan rhetoric as soon as this poor woman goes before them. Misogyny out of the white hated boys club will be rampant. The Republican members of the Supreme Court are even trying to turn back women's rights.

Even if the republicans trash this appointment, it will be no different than the racist way the democrats got rid of the first hipanic AG. The only difference is the democrats lie and hide their racism. Just ask Byrd.

is there enough republicans left to even have a say ?
if they go along with President Obama's pick ,it will be a first .for agreeing with him on anything.
maybe hope for the republicans yet !!!

or not

If God were a Democrat and was nominated the Republican's would find fault becaue they THINK (ha ha) they are better. Except for the last 8 years of course.

If the Republican Senators on the judicial committee and in the Senate as a whole take a "fair" tone in the confirmation process, then I will be delighted and surprised. They have not been known for their respect nor fairness for women or minorities in national leadership roles. Let's see!! Marlene in Mich

Trust me, the GOP is coming with something nasty. Being nice is not a part of their DNA. I think you have to take an oath when you join the Republican party that you are not allowed to agree with any decision the Democrats makes. If you break that oath, you are forced out of the party.

Well if the Republicans choose to make this a big battle, they will again, alienate a large portion of the remaining hispanic population with this fight.

I think the republicans are slowly realizing you can't come back into favor with people by alienating and fighting people and saying they are wrong. The party of "no" should watch their words very carefully.

What an arrogant snotty comment from the Republicans! It's not surprising considering how they've been acting since they got trashed in the election! Judge Roberts was a completely different situation and the Republicans know it. I'm sure that every one of them will go out of their way to dig up any dirt they can find to keep her out of the good old boys club.

When is CNN going to change its liberal tone?!?

Another wishy-washy, middle-of-the-road liberal. Harry Reid must be loving this. We need more true progressives.

Phil Ochs', "Love Me, I'm a Liberal", keeps playing in my mind. These limp-wristed centrist Democrats need a backbone. The true left needs to take over. The Hary Reids of the world suck.

Just in time!! To divert attention away from his failing foreign policy that is..

Lets see....Here's a good move. Let's pick a fight with a WOMAN and
a LATINO. That way we can screw ourselves out of two demographics at the same time.

I am eagerly anticipating the flow of Liberal comments that will prematurely call any GOP opposition to Sotomayor as "typical negativity" that you don't see on the Democrat side.

For those keeping score, President Obama as a Senator openly admitted that he thought Chief Justice Roberts and Justice Alito were absolutely qualified to sit on the highest court given their accomplishments. He then proceeded to vote against confirming both of them, and even participated in - wait for it - a FILIBUSTER to block Alito from a confirmation vote at all.

Try and take that under consideration before you start slandering your opponents, Liberals. I open the floor to you now, mostly for my entertainment, in all honesty.

Didn't Arizona Senator Kyl threaten to filibuster if the President appointed someone like this? He made the threat last week without even knowing who the appointee would be. I didn't see his statement covered on CNN.com.

Has Obama even read the constitution??

Oh please. I can hardly wait to hear what the party of NO has to say on this one. I believe Mitch McConnell is already giving her and us a lesson on what it means to be a judge. Basically, in GOP's eyes – you need to be an affluent male.

Interesting choice of words – "strike" – I waited to see if it was a CNN word or a quote before I laughed.
It's kind of like the perspective mother-in-law saying "I'm going to wait to meet the tramp before I judge her"

Fair tone? The GOP? Right. Like they're "fair and balanced" about everything else. Opposition to Sotomayor will be typical "fear and smear," the GOP's default response to anything that doesn't come directly from the bowels of Rush Limbaugh.

Maybe the GOP could figure out what it actually stands FOR, instead of being against anything not born of its most intransigent right-wing. A growing number of Republicans who are not opposed to compromise in order to get something done are beginning to see the GOP only as the party of refusal: refusal to progress, refusal to work with the larger populace, and refusal to accept their own members' new ideas.

Sure they'll be fair, and balanced, just like Faux News and Rush Limpbaugh is with dissenting view points.

Hypocrites.

I think the far left liberals and pro-choice groups might have more of a problem with Sotomayor than the republicans.

wow...imagine that, a latino woman. I wonder what the entire pool of candidates looked like? Any white faces? Oh, my bad, we pick things in this country now based on Affirmative Action, not who's the most qualified for the job. No wonder we're turning into a 3rd world country, we're too busy trying to satisfy the whiny left and their liberal agenda. AA has been a major factor in the decline of the United States' ability to compete on an international level; especially in science. Because we have to "play fair," and give minorities positions, regardless if they're the best choice or not, the entire nation suffers. Had the entire candidate pool been male, or white, riots would have occurred. Nope, OBama...racism is alive and well in your administration.

Yeah right! They haven't done anything fair in Washington since Reagan.

You better tread carefully because women and Hispanics have a lot of votes next year.You lost the Hispanic and womens vote this past year. Keep up your negativity and they won't vote for you all again.Fair has not come from your side very much since the election and that has harmed your party. Don't say no just to say no as you have on ao many things so far. Still wish yiou had been the party of No on the Iraq war We would have 40000+ more Americans with us today.

Did he say Fear or Fair?? The RNC only knows the meaning of one of those words.

HAH!I'll believe that when i see it.Ruch and Chaney will never allow a non white person to our highest court.It's against thier religon you know.What ever that is,sure aint christanity judging the way they judge everyone who is agianst thier grain.

Republican being "fair", there's an oxymoron. I will believe it when I see it. They will be fair until uneducated Rush finds something to tear her down about, then the Republicans will march in lock step to say NO!!! Alienate the hispanic vote.

HA! They WILL complain! They will whine, they will make up lies! The rnc said long ago they would filabuster the pick no matter who it is. They are a joke, and they CANT do that, so who cares what they say?? I will tell you, NO ONE!!!!!!!!!!

Just like the child who runs from a room to say he didn't break the lamp, the republicans are just sending up a smoke screen, before their very consistent and non-productive actions.

That's all you can ask for. The GOP will judge her based on her merits, not her race, gender or personal life. That's how it's supposed to be done.

Sure they will. And I have some prime real restate on the Gulf Coast of Florida I want to sell ya!

Let's wait and see – at the risk of being a pessimist, I have a hard time believing the RNC will not come out fighting – regarless of her qualifications. I can't wait to hear what rush and rove have to offer.

"Judge Sotomayor is a liberal judicial activist of the first order who thinks her own personal political agenda is more important that the law as written," said Wendy Long, counsel to the conservative Judicial Confirmation Network.

"She thinks that judges should dictate policy and that one's sex, race and ethnicity ought to affect the decisions one renders from the bench. ... She has an extremely high rate of her decisions being reversed, indicating that she is far more of a liberal activist than even the current liberal activist Supreme Court."

How absolutely insane do you have to be to think that the current makeup of the Supreme Court is primarily "liberal activist"? Do they think Scalia is a moderate-liberal judge?

Hey CNN, you better make sure the defibrillator next to Lou Dobb's desk is charged up and ready to go when he hears this news.

To be able to incorporate the words "fair", "neutral", and "Republican" into a single sentence or paragraph is indeed an accomplishment. I however believe that the words "fear" and "neuter" seem more appropriate.

How long before the GOP pushes one of their few hispanic faces to the front of the pack. lol

Bunch of trifling politicians!

Whom ever the President would have pick , the RNC was going against him . The RNC will waste milions of dollars in ads attacking the the President pick . The money that they will waste on the Presidents nominate , they could donates thousands of dollars to soup kichtens .

Sounds "fair" to me. Too bad the same sentiment isn't used by the liberal media and hateful liberal bloggers.

'Fair' is such a subjective word. It will be interesting to see what it means to the RNC.

Good representation. Race , Gender and Creed.

"The Republicans are going to strike a tone that's fair, that allows the vetting process to happen like it should..."

And if you believe this, I gotta bridge you might be interested in...

give me a brerak.dont do us any favors

While on the Circuit Court, Sotomayor's most high profile case involved her voting that the civil right act of 1964 does hold that the city of New Haven may disregard the scores on a promotional test for firefighters because none of the highest scorers on the test were minorities. The case was recently heard by the U.S. Supreme Court, but a ruling has not been issued yet. See Ricci v. DeStefano for more information.

Somebody should ask her how you fight racism with racism.

Affirnative Action has had it's run for 45 years....time for it to go....anybody notice that we have a Black President and Attorney General, and have already had a Black Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and two Black Secrataries of State...what more is necessary?

Using the terms "fair" and "Republican" in the same sentence is an oxymoron by itself. The GOP started the slime weeks ago.

i hope the gop dont remember what joe biden did to judege borek

Fair...They keep saying that word. I don' t think they know what it means.

If tje judge is felt to be competent and qualified to be appointed than she should be..we really don't need a bunch of political hacks interfering with due process..I do hope she has paid all of her taxes

Who is the RNC?Arent they the party of No?

"fair" is not part of the republican party playbook..idiots...they really think we the american people aren't watching or listening! how dare they try and patronize us AGAIN!

Obama has the GOP in a box on this one. That is why he swung for the fences and picked the most liberal, most activist judge he could.

Sotomayor famously said that the court of appeals "makes policy" and has a record for being reversed by the SCOTUS on a regular basis, sometimes by a unanimous reversal.

She has demonstrated amply that she has what Obama is looking for: a willingness to disregard the rule of law and substitute her own values for what the law says.

I think I hear that giant sucking sound getting louder.

of course the gutless sheep will take a "fair tone". they believe that hispanics are stupid and they will be able to fool them into believing that the g.o.p. has a place for them. problem is, a lot of hispanics have already figured them out and know that they have no place at their table...unless they are on the wait staff!

I imagine it will be `fair and balanced`, just like Fox. What a joke!!!!

For God's sake, Make the GOP disappear.

Sounds to me like she's a racist: If the Republicans bring out the fact she ruled against the one Hispanic and some White firefighters because no Blacks passed a fire exam test, the Republicans could rally the Independents on those facts.

Wasn't Bejamin Cardozo the first Hispanic on the Supreme Court?

all i can say once again for OBAMA............ is BRAVO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Their definition of "fair"is unimpressive. It reminds me of the "fair" I hear from 3 year olds in which nothing is fair unless it goes their way...

Would it be naive to ask for non-politicized process of vetting?

You bet, and the moon is made out of cheese. The selection has just been made public and already the "do gooder" groups and others are already digging for the dirt! Looking at her credentials she seems well qualified to be a Supreme Court Judge. However, lets wait and see how others will try to tear her apart only because she "might" not support their own views.

The RNC will fail miserably in its attempt to FAKE a fair tone toward Sotomayor; Rush Limbaugh, the party's leader, will make sure of that.

I don't know how far the Republicans can be... They have been very angry towards many that don't share their views. Look at Powell as a good example.

Does anyone really believe the GOP will be "fair"? Give me a break...

Unless she wants to move the country back to the 1800's like most NeoCons, the GOP will call her "far-left" and a "liberal judicial activist"... which of course is just conservative code for "anyone who isn't a NeoCon"...

The GOP has become pathetically consistant with being the party of "NO"... I don't expect anything less on this either... If she does get alot of GOP support.. .then I will worry!

"The Republicans are going to strike a tone that's fair..."
*
Yeah they won't. First of all, for the record, Roberts was seen as a right wing nut and he has yet to have the opprotunity to display his nutty-ness. The right has been stacking the SCOTUS for decades and it's how we ended up with Bush the Lesser.
It would not matter who Obama picked. They are going to do their very best to stop it. Does anybody expect anything different from The Party of No, The Grand Obstructionist Party?
In the past Sotomayor has enjoyed bi-partisan support. But because Obama picked her, expect the GOP to act a fool and obstruct.

Well, this would certainly be historical. No, not the fact that we would have the first Hispanic/Latin-American to be a Supreme Court judge, but if the RNC (Reply is "NO" Constantly) would actually strike a "fair tone".

who cares?

I suspect the "fair" tone will be something along the lines of:

"We have serious reservations about her qualifications for the Supreme Court." (Translation: She's not a radical right-wing extremist like the Republican base, therefore she's a dangerous liberal intent on destroying the country.)

"Some of her past opinions raise troubling questions about her judgment." (Translation: She doesn't always agree with Rush Limbaugh.)

The GOP will "strike a fair tone"....... really? There has been nothing 'fair' about the Republicans in years. Perhaps the GOP is finally realizing that .... only...... 21%.... of Americans consider themselves GOP!

Bravo Mr. President......... Sotomayor is a brilliant pick!

Why is it that we are so concerned that a female or a person of color might be so influenced by gender or race that they are unable to interpret the constitution or the law dispasionately? Where is the concern that white male justices may be equally influenced by their experiences of privilege and advantage? What hypocracy.

He's right....the Democrats ALMOST showed a backbone with Roberts. Not quite, though. This guy must really be angry that there was one time in 8 years that the Repubs almost didn't get their way.

"Fair" my bony white behind. They'll be just as petty, whiny and racist toward her as they've been toward Obama.

Fair?

Like Fox News is "fair and balanced"? We shall see.

This official's statement was written no later than the day Justice Souter announced his retirement. All that remained was to fill in the blank with the nominee's name. All you need to know about GOP "fairness" is in the preceding biographical post. "Unopposed" in 1991 (nominated by Bush) paired with "confirmation to current seat took over 1 year" (nominated by Clinton).

Bull. The Republicans don't strike a "fair" tone about anything. They hate everything, are angry at everyone and promote ill education, ignorance, and blind obedience. They wouldn't know "fair" if it bit them on the butt.

Blah blah blah.... nothing but partisan crap from the GOP as always.... GOP = PARTY FIRST....

Words are cheap, actions speak. I would welcome the Party of "No" following through with a "promise" such as this. But fairness really isn't the issue. What is "fair" depends on your political ideals. If your ideology differs enough, what one considers fair will be unfair to others. Looking at the GOP platform, I will be surprised to see anything "fair" being stated by the "mouthpieces" of this party.

The Republicans need to strike a "fair" tone. They are already a party in turmoil. Why start more mess?

We'll believe it when we see it. Personally, I fully expect a continuation of the GOP's temper tantrum that has been going strong for nigh on 6 months.

As for Roberts, that's a load of bunk. Roberts fits every preliminary criticism the GOPers have thrown out there with respect to Obama's statements about what he considered important. It's more to-be-expected hypocrisy. Roberts is a neocon and was chosen by Bush, just like Alito was, solely to further the neocon agenda in an activist manner.

Conservative leaders do not say what they mean nor do they mean what they say. They do not plan to do what they say they are going to do. This infallible rule has been proven over and over.

What they are doing now is trying to find some dirt on her. Maybe she didn't pay her maid's social security. Maybe her boyfriend took a topless picture of her 35 years ago. Maybe her minister's brother is gay. They will find something. Then they will say: "I'm not saying that she is necessarily going to outlaw heterosexual relationships, but it is a question that needs to be considered. After all, our traditional values are being threatened by Liberal....."

Watch and see...

Looking forward to more GOP NOnsense.

If anyone beleive that, I still have that bridge to nowhere in Alaska for sale.

"The Republicans are going to strike a tone that's fair, that allows the vetting process to happen like it should, and that's in stark contrast to how the Democrats dealt with Judge Roberts when you look back a couple years ago," the official said

And then the response will be NO!!!!

The RNC has absolutely NO ROLE in this matter, so who gives a rip? It would appear that Republican Senators don't have minds of their own ... IF the RNC has a voice in the process! FAIR???? Fat chance with the RNC.

To get an idea of what the mean by fair tune into Faux News

I don't even know how to respond...
It SOUNDS "fair"ly good, but with history having shown Republicans to attack pretty much everything that isn't them, I'm going to have a "fair" wait and see attitude:
Armor up but willing to talk and listen.

If recent history of Republican attitudes towards Obama is a clue, then FAIR will mean this
F fight ferociuosly
A attack constantly
I irritate endlessly
R reject everything

The republicans should think hard about this one. If they reject her it will hurt them in getting an spanish vote from here on out. And it will help the President in getting the spanish vote. So this will be real interesting to hear what the Party of No has to say.

The RNC said they would strike a fair tone toward Sonia Sotomayor, isn't that like saying Fox News is fair and balanced? I don't think they know the meaning of fair.

why should Republicans be fair? With democrats LIBERALLY using budget reconciliation to get their socialist agenda approved when are they going to start being FAIR?

Could you even go so far as to say the tone will be fair...AND balanced?? This should be fun!

Well, at least they didn't say 'fair and balanced'. As for 'fair' I'll belive it when I see it.

Are the RNC claiming the Roberts' hearings were unfair? Should we thus remove him from the bench until "fair" hearings are held? Give me a break...

Just remember what the RNC thinks of as fair. They're going to hit her with everything. Much of it will be blatantly unfair to normal people. Look for Alberto Gonzales to take point, unless he's in hiding from his assistance to the Bushist torture policy.

The RNC better be careful here. If they go after Sotomayor, they risk alienating the Hispanic base, not only that, women will be turned off too. And don't forget, Bush picked Alito and Roberts.

I doubt the republicans know the meaning of the word...........

The GOP is in a very good position for any SCOTUS pick. The youngest members of the Supreme Court (Scalia, Thomas, Roberts, Alito) are all right-wing, while all the expected retiring members are the left-wingers. Obama, in the next eight years, will not gain any ground with any appointments to the court because he'd just be replacing liberal Justices anyway. The GOP won't lose a single seat to left-wingers.

"... a couple of years ago?" Oh, you mean 22 years ago, back in 1987!

If I remember, Judge Roberts was almost a shoo-in for approval and had it pretty easy. It was Alito who had more problems, and, of course, Harriet Miers was totally thrown out.

It iwll be instructive to see the republican interpretations of "Fair" in action. If it is anything like Fox's inapposite use of the word, that will be disappointing.
But, there's always hope that the across-the-board dwindling GOP numbers will finally cause them to move away from the extreme fundamentalist nut jobs to something more workable for the majority of the Country. However, I'm not holding my breath with has-been anachronisms like Newt, Cheney, and Rove at the helm behind Big Daddy Rush.

I'm a raging liberal – and I think she is too centrist for me. I wanted a far-left judge.

well, she doesn't look like an old grumpy white man, so the GOP will fight this with all they've got.

Yeah, sure they will. Who's going to be the first republican to call something offensive to her????.

I'm guessing another james bond style video is on his way.

Fair = Against EVERYTHING

I'll believe it when I see it The Republican tend to make as much noise about everything as possible. There's no reason to believe that this will be any different.

Judge Roberts is an extremist, Sotomayor is not.

Republicans and a "fair tone"? No such thing. But, they are losers no matter how you slice it.

Can you feel the "fairness?" It's everywhere. Of course, my favorite is that supreme court justices are to be selected without regard to race, color, religion, or age.

I suppose that's why Obama was pressured to appoint a young, liberal, female hispanic.

No one else had a chance.

Of course, she could take the burden of constitutional authority on her shoulders and turn out to be a great justice. I certainly hope so.

Any statement by these liars should be taken with a boulder of salt. They will do what they do best which is try to obstruct. They think its okay for Bush to stack the court with condervatives with no regard for human rights and privacy but they;ll go avter Obama for picking someone who cares about the people.

Of course they will be "fair". And pigs fly!

Give it an up and down vote just like the Republicans demanded on previous nominees or be the hypocrites that everyone knows you are.

Like it makes a difference what their tone is.

During her confirmation hearings with the L-E-G-I-S-L-A-T-I-V-E branch of our government.....you know, executive, LEGISLATIVE and judicial...I certainly would expect that she be asked to explain her past comments...(paraphrasing mine).....that judges are expected to legislate from the bench....maybe that's her view, but it sure in hell isn't spelled out that way in the Constitution.

a fair tone? Pleaaaaase, clarence thomas has already put out a statement denouncing her and her views. Repugs are liars

This is all anyone can ask for: fairness. These guys (Reps.) have gone beyond the pale in their almost anti-American lack of respect for the current President. You've got this yahoo Gov. from Nevada blatantly disrespecting the POTUS because of a comment the President made in regards to ill-timed trips to Las Vegas from corporate CEOs. I tell you it is sickening, and disheartening. Not even at the height of the Bush fiasco do I recall such antipathy towards a sitting President who is working so hard to pull this country together. I'll let you put a name to what this crap is really about.

That will be the day. The republicans fair??
They have been the extreme opposite for so long am surprised
the word is in their vocabulary. And their meaning of fair which we
know will be different than ours and the dictionary,

Fair? Have you seen the propaganda already put out on ALL of the potential nominees by the Greedy Old Party?

Fair to them is NO. Bipartisan to them is OUR WAY OR NOT AT ALL.

Fair? HA

If the GOP goes after Sotomayer, they are going to lose the remaining voting blocs of women, Hispanics, descendants of immigrants and possibly even diabetics. Would be a very bad move for them to go after her.

Republicans are going to complain, but who cares. She's the best candidate for the job. So they can strike any kind of tone they want. She will be confirmed.

Ever since Souter announced his resignation, the neocons have made clear their intent to oppose WHOMEVER President Obama nominates. In fact, since Obama was inaugurated, the neocons have opposed WHATEVER Obama has tried to accomplish.

Republicans want to ensure that their rich corporate cronies maintain the wealth and power they amassed under the Bush administration, and they'll fight any changes that benefit average Americans.

I'm going to be waiting to see what conservative writer Ruben Navarrette has to say about this. He seemed so sure that President Obama had turned his back on the Hispanic community and would NOT pick a Latino for the high court. As a conservative I wonder what he is going to say about this pick.

The repubs being fair toward any nominee of the President's is completely out of the question, and it will only show further how ridiculous they have become in their ability to obstruct.

It sounds to me like "fair" sounds like retribution.

I remember when Roberts was nominated. He should have been vetted critically. I am still stymied how a young rookie got to be Chief Justice. I am not convinced that ideology won't trump the good of the American public at-large. The GOP seem interested in only supporting themselves and those like them (funny that in a democracy, eh?)

Sure and if you believe that one I have some beach front property to see you too!

Fair, as in Fair and Balanced. Right.

Republicans will be very bit as "fair" as the democrats have been since Bork.