Why, Sandra, Why?

Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor announced her retirement today, forming the first Supreme Court vacancy in 11 years. With the highly likely retirement of Chief Justice William Rehnquist in the coming months due to his deteriorating health, this gives Bush enormous power to leave a long-term impression on the country with two Supreme Court appointments.

We already knew a huge battle was awaiting with Rehnquist's seat, now Bush has another opportunity to give a like-minded right-wing justice a lifetime spot on the nation's highest court. This is where the checks and balance system that the founding fathers envisioned comes in grave danger. The Republicans already have a firm grip on the White House and Congress, and with two appointments (which certainly won't be without controversy, mud-slinging, and filibustering), Bush could set up an uber-Conservative court that could last many years.

Now, I admit I'm a liberal (though Independent), and I certainly don't lean as far to the left as some people do, this solidified alignment of the U.S. government on the right side of the aisle represents a threat to many so-called "liberal" ideals, such as women's reproductive rights (don't even bother commenting about this, I'm not looking to start a cyber-fight).

As Harry Ried said in this article, "Above all, Justice O'Connor has been a voice of reason and moderation on the court. It is vital that she be replaced by someone like her."

And with that voice of moderation lost, I shudder to think what rulings will be handed down in the coming years.