In the face of the Republican Party’s outright blockade of even considering a nominee for Scalia’s vacant seat, there was some talk about Obama possibly nominating Gov. Brian Sandoval (R-NV)

Republican governor of Nevada Brian Sandoval being considered for Supreme Court • SCOTUS Battle • 2016 Feb 24 • Mike DeBonis and Juliet Eilperin • PowerPost • Washington Post

While I can see the theoretical advantage of pushing a Republican candidate, that would probably be very disappointing to many in the Democratic base.

Still:

Sandoval is aligned with Democrats on some key issues, including abortion rights and the environment. As governor, he has moved to implement the Affordable Care Act, and has said he considers same-sex marriage to be a settled issue.

But it looks like the idea is moot.

Sandoval bows out of Supreme Court consideration • SCOTUS Battle • 2016 Feb 25 • Juliet Eilperin • PowerPost • Washington Post