Another political battle looms

The Denver Post: The retirement of Supreme Court Justice John Paul Stevens, who has served commendably for 35 years and is the leader of the court’s liberal wing, probably won’t change the ideological balance of the court.

But his departure sets in motion a political battle that will last for months. The timing, with the run-up to midterm elections, ensures the process of nominating his successor will be politically charged.

Senators need to keep in mind that their job is to determine whether President Barack Obama’s choice is qualified to serve.

Qualifications

Whatever calculus the president employs to choose a nominee, it is imperative that he select someone who is thoroughly qualified. That, of course, will be a topic for the Senate to explore, and we expect its members will fully scrutinize the president’s nominee.