All rise . . .

The Alito confirmation hearings began this morning and while formal questioning won't begin until tomorrow, it seems that the process isn't going to be a relaxing ride for the nominee. In their opening remarks, senators promised to question Alito sharply about his views on abortion and executive power. Hopefully, our little Democrats will actually fulfill their promises this time, but this could get dirty considering the hefty paper trail that Alito has left throughout his career and growing concern among Congress on Bush's increasingly bullish Presidential prowess. Listen to the hearings or follow the coverage.