How Will Chafee Vote?

Chafee, the liberal Republican from Rhode Island, appears to be the only realistic opponent of the Alito confirmation within the Republican caucus. Although the senator has not come out against the nominee, his views on judicial issues such as abortion, civil rights, and criminal defendents are much more closely aligned with Democrats opposed to Alito than Republicans in favor. Nevertheless, Chafee has yet to vote against any of Bush's major nominees, including court and cabinet positions.

However, Chafee is not only up against tough Democrats this upcoming election. His competition in the primary appears to be just as stiff. Voting NO could give him a better chance in the general election, but he might face mutiny from his party this spring.