Fall’s colorful trees will soon be bare. Storms will close roads, fell power lines. Homes will be dark and cold. Spring’s barren fields will bloom if only we till the soil and sow the seeds of a better life for all. Summer and winter are different, but they share a saving grace — neither inspires [...]

The right wrote letters to raise money while Souter’s resignation was a seed. As it began to sprout, they went out. Before Obama finished his short list, Rushies had a long one of objections to any contender he might render. They branded the nominee “unabashed liberal” before they knew her name. So, why couldn’t the [...]

Obama’s hearing voices, quiet during his campaign. They explain the facts of life now that he’s beyond the reach of voters. He must break old promises like bad habits, because his new life brings constituents with different needs to satisfy: Wall Street gets the money, auto makers not so much; health care stays in front, [...]

The idea of a judge with sympathy terrifies Senate Republicans. Like jam on an English muffin, understanding could spread through the Supreme Court, filling all the nooks and crannies with sticky liberal goodness. They think that might undermine current strict constructionists, who keep individuals from trampling the rights of institutions, by giving them another chance [...]