GOP keeps filibuster card ready for court pick
By PHILIP ELLIOTT, Associated Press Writer
WASHINGTON – Empathy isn't part of the job description for a Supreme Court justice, a top Republican says.
As President Barack Obama prepares to name his pick for the high court, the Senate's No. 2 Republican said the qualifications being discussed — "emotions or feelings or preconceived ideas," Sen. Jon Kyl called them — aren't enough to justify a lifetime appointment. The Arizona Republican on Sunday wouldn't rule out a filibuster to block an Obama pick that falls outside his definition of the mainstream.
"We will distinguish between a liberal judge on one side and one who doesn't decide cases on the merits but, rather, on the basis of his or her preconceived ideas," Kyl said.
Obama, who has interviewed at least two candidates, is preparing to announce a pick to replace Justice David Souter in the coming days. Sen. Dick Durbin of Illinois, the No. 2 Democrat in the Senate, said Sunday that he has been told a choice is likely to be announced this week.
Those involved with Obama's decision suggest it could come as early as Tuesday.
In the meantime, Obama has offered hints into what he wants in a justice.
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