New York Times Editorial Urges More Filibusters

NY Times -- Many senators have stood up to the administration's assault on an independent judiciary, but others have been too silent. Senator Dianne Feinstein, who represents California, one of the nation's most diverse states, should be a stronger voice against nominees like Judge Owen and Judge Kuhl, who have shown disregard for victims of discrimination. Senator Arlen Specter, who comes from Pennsylvania, a state with a proud labor tradition, should be speaking out against nominees like Judge Owen and Deborah Cook, who reflexively favor corporations over the little guy.

The filibuster is not a tool to be used lightly. But the Senate has been right to use it against the nomination of Miguel Estrada, who is hiding his views on legal issues. It should do the same to stop the once-rejected Judge Owen, and tell extreme conservatives in the Bush administration to stop trying to hijack the federal judiciary.