Thanks for this thoughtful analysis, Rebecca. And for providing more information on Amy Coney Barrett's time as a handmaid.

When I studied constitutional law as an undergraduate, my professor often pointed out that a partisan court was not likely because senate confirmation required a 2/3 vote.

When Harry Reid went "nuclear" to get Obama's appellate court judges approved with a simple majority, Mitch McConnell retaliated by going nuclear at the Supreme Court level. Those last three Trump appointments never would have made it through under the old rule. And this partisanship at the Court has hurt the nation in ways we are yet to see.

I applaud all the steps you've mentioned to address the situation. And yet, I want to think more about the point you made in the Wizard of Oz section. It was kindness that killed the Wicked Witch. As we fight the good fight, I think it behooves us to remember that.

Thanks for another worthy read. Best to you, as always.