21.   But leadership in putting the whole confirmation process back on track will have to come from Sen. Orrin Hatch, chairman of the Judiciary Committee.

22.   But Sasser, a former Democratic senator, could face a lengthy confirmation process in the Republican-controlled Senate.

23.   But the confirmation process does not require Coverdell to do so and his announcement Tuesday dashed the hope that he would do so.

24.   But the confirmation process has become mired in ideological warfare.

25.   But the paths of their nominations offer case studies in how an often turbulent confirmation process may be becoming still more partisan and contentious.

26.   But views are seldom decisive in the modern confirmation process, no matter how relevant to the job the nominee seeks.

27.   By neglecting that role and turning the confirmation process into a purely partisan battle, the Republicans have clogged the court dockets and done the nation a disservice.

28.   Democrats complain the number reflects GOP foot-dragging in the confirmation process during the Clinton years.

29.   Dr. Elders hasa better understanding of that now, but is still disturbed by the political pettiness in the confirmation process.

30.   Experts fear that the confirmation process will be prolonged until next year.