Collins is irrelevant right now. [View all]
She very well could prove to be a no vote but it might not really matter anyway. Since the GOP grew its majority in 2018, they have wiggle room - enough where Collins and Murkowski could be rock-solid no votes but a nominee still passes the senate.
The Republicans have 53 seats (not even counting Murkowski, who's an independent) and only need 51 votes to confirm Trump's pick.
Collins only becomes an issue if a couple Republicans step up and come out as a no vote.
Romney is floated as one but he ducked the question about filling a vacant SC seat in an election year when asked back in 2018.
But then who?
Lindsey Graham might be on record opposing any nominee in 2020 - but Graham is also on record calling Trump some of the worst names I've ever heard an elected official call him and he's now best golfing buds with him. Sure, maybe he says, "look, Donald, I am in the reelection campaign of my life ... I can't afford this battle."
But he also might realize Trump polls better than he does in South Carolina, so, uh, it might be politically advantageous to support the move.
Not like South Carolina is a swing state or even Democratic-leaning state like Colorado or Maine.
So, maybe Cory Gardner? He seems cooked regardless. But he's a tool.
In the end, there isn't enough no votes to make Collins vote matter.
She'll vote no, they'll confirm, she'll get to stand on principle and who knows, maybe is rewarded with a win this November. Win-win for her.
Lose-lose for us.
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