Reply #10: Option 4 is looking better.

[TPaine7]

The closeness of the vote means that McCain can use the issue, combined with his appointment preferences, as a weapon.

Unless Obama goes with option 4.

I didn't expect the ruling to be so close. The closeness changed the political calculus. Option 4 may be his best option. Sure it will infuriate the anti Second Amendment minority, but they can't exactly vote for McCain and they have a long time to get over their anger.

I now predict option 4, though I suspect his praise may be muted.