Here's a story on pro-life groups being basically pleased with Specter's behavior in the Roberts/Alito hearing process, in spite of his pro-abort position. Social Conseratives are forever up in arms about somethin Specter has said, but I have a theory about him. He's married to a woman who at least at one time was a Planned Parenthood official, and he comes from a liberal district. I think Specter long ago made it understood to the Republican leadership that we was going to go his own way on social questions in order to satisfy his supporters, but would stand with them if they ever truly needed his vote. Thus, Specter will always vote wrong on "life" questions, but right on procedural questions such as judicial filibusters, etc. It's just a theory, but for as long as I've followed Specter, it's been an accurate predictor of his vote. (And, just to stir the pot, I will note that Sen. Hatch, by contrast, always argues right on the life questions, but occasionally --when his vote will be decisive-- finds need to jump ship).
I'm not saying I wouldn't be happier if a pro-lifer were in charge of the Judiciary Committee, but it's why Specter doesn't bother me much. He's alright in a foxhole.
