Back then there was a big conservative base that was not infiltrated by the [DS]. I am guessing Alito was nominated to keep them happy.

But we can be devil's advocate for a second and think about it differently. If DS wanted to control the scotus, they wouldnt want every decision to be 9-0. So its conceivable that they would have "designated" one or two fo them to be the staunch opponents of [DS] agenda. I have a hard time believing Clarence is like that, but Alito could very well be. I sincerely hope he is not, though.