It's been 76 years since a Democratic President appointed a Chief Justice - let that sink in

[Polybius]

I new it was a long time ago, but I thought that the last time a Democrat appointed a Chief Justice was Warren Burger (I was wrong, that was Nixon). The last time was Fred M. Vinson, appointed by Harry Truman in 1948! Wow, that's an insanely long time. We had a chance with LBJ. He nominated sitting Justice Abe Fortas on June 26, 1968, but his nomination was filibustered by Republicans and Southern Democrats for being too liberal and too close to the election (sound familiar)?

I am astounded by this. John Roberts is 67. If he retires at 81, that will be 90 years. Even then, it's a crapshoot because I'm sure we'll have another Republican President at some point in the future. This is depressing.

[jimfields33]

1. The seat is the Chief Justice seat.

I always thought the senior judge should be Chief Justice but I guess the founders thought otherwise.

[lastlib]

3. Perish the thought of Clarence having the job! Or Fat Tony.

[jimfields33]

4. True.

[bronxiteforever]

2. Kick & recommend for visibility

[Grumpy Old Guy]

5. However...

Roberts and Alito have shown us that being chief justice sometimes doesn't mean squat. This is now the Alito/Thomas court.

[In It to Win It]

7. Since Roberts is so worried about how people percieve the court, he should retire

Throw away the "myth" of a strategic retirement that makes the court look so nakedly partisan. Retire while someone of the opposite party can appoint his successor.

[Polybius]

8. Cheif Justice is the ultimate deam job though

I wouldn't blame him if he stays until 85.

[Polybius]

9. Kick!