Republicans would put cloud over Supreme Court to avoid really investigating Kavanaugh

Judge Brett Kavanaugh and his Republican allies in the Senate managed only to deepen doubts about his credibility and suitability for the Supreme Court on Thursday.

Kavanaugh’s tear-choked tirades fit no one’s idea of judicial temperament. He hurled conspiracist accusations that raise questions about whether he could set aside his partisan feelings and act as an impartial jurist, a fundamental qualification for the Supreme Court.

Kavanaugh’s testimony contrasted sharply with the sincerity and composure of Christine Blasey Ford who testified that he sexually attacked her at a party when they were in high school.

By refusing to allow other witnesses or to seek an FBI investigation into the claims, the Republicans made clear they have no desire to get beyond “he said, she said,” no interest in testing Kavanaugh’s honesty or character.

Even knowing that lying to the FBI is a federal crime, Ford asked for an FBI investigation. When asked by Sen. Dick Durbin if he would ask President Trump to reopen his FBI background check, Kavanaugh just stonewalled, retreating to his handful of talking points.

While previous Supreme Court nominees — including Justice Clarence Thomas, who faced sexual harassment charges — maintained a nonpartisan tone, Kavanaugh let his partisan resentment rip. He blamed “left wing opposition groups” for the questions Ford had raised about his character. He claimed he was the victim of “a calculated and orchestrated political hit” and “revenge on behalf of the Clintons.” In doing so, he gave “left-wing” groups with business before the courts reason to seek his recusal from their cases.

The Republicans spent most of their time complaining that the Judiciary Committee failed to keep Ford’s allegations secret and seemed more concerned about Kavanagh’s reputation than the reputation of the Supreme Court.

Republicans’ driving concern is pushing through the confirmation in case the November election gives Democrats a greater say in who will fill the Supreme Court vacancy. Last week, even before hearing Ford, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell vowed that the Senate would “plow right through” and confirm Kavanaugh.

If Republicans succeed in confirming Kavanaugh without further investigation of Ford’s and other accusations against him, the cloud over the Supreme Court will be on them.