The “this is going to be a bloodbath” CW is cast in cement. But conservatives should never let the liberal media forget that the New Campaign Model of Supreme Court nominations is a monster created by liberals and not by conservatives. Clarence Thomas had 48 votes against him. But only three Republicans objected to Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who certainly had a history of liberal activism. Republicans have displayed a sense that presidents deserve their Supreme Court nominees without political litmus tests, in most circumstances, but Democrats wage war against anyone seen as ideologically unsuitable to them. (Another contrast: 47 votes against Ashcroft for Attorney General. Zero votes against Janet Reno by Republicans.)