Wednesday Must-Reads: The Battle Begins

The Sonia Sotomayor nomination has set off a new wave of campaigning, with politicians from both sides jumping on air to try to frame the debate. The first ad to hit television, a positive bio spot of Sotomayor, was created by the progressive-leaning Coalition for Constitutional Values. With Democrats just short of a filibuster-proof 60-seat majority, Republicans face long odds and are split over how to fight the nomination; but, for those who choose to fight, the tactics are already clear: Politico guesses Sotomayor will be labeled as “radical, pushy, racially insensitive and lacking judicial smarts,” though perhaps not in so many words. Yesterday’s other big news—the California Supreme Court’s decision to uphold the Prop 8 gay marriage ban—should set off a battle of its own, too, as gay marriage supporters pledge to return to the ballot. The details of that fight are hazier, but new pollings shows that despite gains, gay marriage is still opposed by most Americans. Campaigning odds and ends:

Illinois Sen. Roland Burris is back in trouble again as recordings of a shady conversation with Rod Blagojevich are released. If history is any indication, turnout in next month’s Virginia gubernatorial primary will be very low, though the vote could determine the state’s next governor. Harry Reid’s big Vegas fundraiser could be used against him in a moment when many Nevadans are struggling economically. Politico warned yesterday that Twitter is a tool that too many politicians are ignoring in campaign season. If you want help with that, refer to Twitter guru and magazine contributor David All’s updated Twitter 101 guide, complete with case studies.