Yet in his short inaugural the former Senator declared: "So let's get this deficit business done - and fast.

Each Senator shall declare his assent or dissent to the question without debate.

"Let there be no misunderstanding," the Senator declared.

The Senator declared, "There will be no leaving Harlem, period."

"I can't get enough of this Trout," the Senator declared.

"Keep away from booze, remember who you are, and behave accordingly," the Senator roundly declared.

But by that time 53 Senators had publicly declared that they would vote against him.

"I'm not going to retreat," the Senator declared.

At least 54 Senators have declared their intention to vote to confirm Judge Thomas.

"You heard him stand here today and say he was for abortion on demand," the Senator declared.