New York Senator Charles Schumer's capitulation to allow a vote on UN Ambassador John Bolton's confirmation for reappointment means he will be confirmed. The Schumer position allows Democrats to vote no on the nomination itself to preserve their multilateralist commitments and opposition to all things Bush, but not to have to show this by voting for a filibuster.

Schumer's change of heart reflects, I think, some real concern that the Bush administration's strong support of Israel may result in a shift of some Democratic voters who have Israel as their primary concern (Jews and non—Jews) to support for the GOP.

Richard Baehr   7 31 06