His problem: even if he manages to get the seat, he will fill two years being closely-watched, intensely-vetted, challenged on almost every word by politicians and pundits who don’t want him there.

I don't think this is correct.

I think there will be a lot of pointless hoopla, after which he'll be seated.

And even though Rush Limbaugh may chant his name every day like a mantra, he'll still be a Senator.

Republicans were perfectly happy to have Larry Craig's vote since he was still there, weren't they?