A day that started off painfully and scandalogically, then suddenly got substantive. But I’m not optimistic for tomorrow, unless nothing’s happening at all.
Here are some final items of the day:
* Sri Srinivasan confirmed for seat on the crucial D.C. Court of Appeals by unanimous Senate vote after long delay (he was originally nominated nearly a year ago for a position that’s been open since 2008). Some will view this action as an early victory for Harry Reid’s threat to “go nuclear” if necessary to stop filibusters of executive and judicial nominees in July.
* John McCain tears Mike Lee a new one on Senate floor over obstruction of budget conference committee appointments. I doubt it will make any difference at all.
* Even the lame ducks can’t control themselves: Saxby Chambliss assaults Obama speech as one that will “be viewed by terrorists as a victory.”
* Big drop in Japan’s Nikkei stock market could have been partially caused by Ben Bernanke’s speech to Congress yesterday.
* At Ten Miles Square, Raymond Smith cites Canadian Conservative Party’s sudden switch on marriage equality as potential template for GOP.
* At College Guide, Richard Vedder discusses embarrassing data on how long it’s taking students to complete bachelor’s degrees.
And in non-political news:
* NOAA warns 2013 Atlantic hurricane season could be “extremely active.” Ugh.
Let’s end the day with more Tull: a fine performance of the famous instrumental “Bourée” in 1969.
Selah.
