But typically the panel would still allow for more discussion in what was their confirmation hearing.
Durbin went straight to their votes, saying senators already had two chances to debate their nominations.
And GOP reactions went from confusion to anger to the kinds of high-octane tantrums familiar to anyone with children under the age of 5.
“I would also like to speak on the nomination,” said Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.).
“I understand what you’d like to do, but I’m saying, in fairness, we’ve debated these nominees twice,” Durbin said.
Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) fumed at Senate Judiciary Committee chair Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) for following a precedent set by Republicans on advancing judicial nominees.
Through all this, Durbin sat expressionless, waiting for breaks in the attacks to quietly direct the clerk to continue the roll call. »
