Alito for the Supreme Court

I watched some of the confirmation hearings for Samuel Alito. I watched the Senators questioning him, and I watched how he answered. I hear so many conflicting responses to this that I decided I should put down my own response to what I see.

As I watched, I was struck by the feeling that Alito, in his responses, was so much better prepared than any of his questioners, whether they were in favor or against him. Some say that he evades really answering the questions. However, it appeared to me, as a person with no judicial background, that he did a good job. Maybe better questions were needed, but he certainly responded within the context of the questions, and without expressing how he might deal with future cases. I was also struck by how very much more intelligent he appeared than the president who suggested him as the one to fill the vacant spot on the Supreme Court.

I realize that this is a lifetime appointment. I also know that I have some misgivings, particularly about his attitude toward executive power, and about his attitude toward abortion and women's rights. I think he will not be an exact replacement for the so-called swing vote of Sandra Day O'Connor. He will be himself, which always is somewhat different from the predecessor. Also, I have not read as much background material as have the Senators. However, from my limited perspective, if I had to vote on his confirmation, I would, at this time, vote to confirm him.