It seems like just a few weeks ago, we wouldn't have expected this sort of reaction to the Sotomayor news from Sen. Arlen Specter.

I applaud the nomination of Judge Sotomayor to the Supreme Court. Her confirmation would add needed diversity in two ways: the first Hispanic and the third woman to serve on the high court. While her record suggests excellent educational and professional qualifications, now it is up to the Senate to discharge its constitutional duty for a full and fair confirmation process.

Just imagine if Specter was still the Republican ranking member on the Judiciary Committee, fending off attacks from his right! Now he's a Democrat, though, and crawling slowly to the left. So his support for Sotomayor isn't all that surprising.