More interesting tidbits on the Nomination Wars:

James Dobson, founder of Focus on the Family, said he spoke with Deputy White House Chief of Staff Karl Rove on Oct. 1 -- two days before the Miers nomination -- and was told that "Harriet Miers was at the top of the short list." Also on that list were several candidates that many conservatives say they would have preferred, Mr. Dobson said on his radio program that was recorded yesterday and will be broadcast today. "Well, what Karl told me is that some of those individuals took themselves off that list," he said, according to a transcript obtained last night. "They would not allow their names to be considered because the process has become so vicious and so vitriolic and so bitter that they didn't want to subject themselves or the members of their families to it." White House officials could not be reached for comment last night.

This marks the third time I've seen this point made, albeit the first time in solid print media and not referenced to "anonymous sources". If this proves true it would cast even more doubts on the "Bush=coward" meme, and provide a more rational explanation to the Miers pick than just mere cronyism.

Considering that this second nomination is to replace Sandra Day O'Conner, a strict constructionist would very well have an effect on the balance of the court, something conservatives strongly desire and liberals utterly abhor. That is why the Democrats will oppose a strict conservative nomination in this situation, and will utilize (or fabricate) any means necessary to do so. I cannot find it within myself to blame anyone for desiring not to be subjected to scrutiny of such a vicious nature.

*** UPDATE ***
Confirmed by the White house here.