But having a member who is doing nothing more than drawing a paycheck and emitting carbon dioxide is the moral equivalent of having a vacancy. Republicans, of course, would still prefer to prop Thurmond up until the next election, in November 2002. As long as they're down by only one seat in the Senate, Republicans can hope that some Democrat will switch parties, leave to join the circus, or get run over by a bus, throwing control back to them. If Thurmond were to resign and be replaced by a Democrat, though, that hope would be gone. But too bad.
Senators always say they put the needs of the country above the interests of their party.
This is their chance to prove it. Use this form to find your local paper's email address and recommend this columnist. Member Groups 60 Plus Assocation Accuracy in Academia Accuracy in Media Acton Institute Agape Press American Conservative Union Amer. World Magazine Yorktown University Young America's Foundation Issues Library Budget and Tax Culture and Family Defense Budget Education Environment Foreign Policy Government Reform Health and Science Internet and Tech.