Senate confirms Judge Amy Coney Barrett to U.S. Supreme Court

WASHINGTON — The Senate confirmed Supreme Court Justice nominee Amy Coney Barrett in a final vote Monday evening.

It came after Senators had 30 hours to make their case on the Senate floor, with Senate Democrats using the time to protest her confirmation and the vote itself.

“The American people should have their say,” said Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse (D-Rhode Island).

Democrats tried but failed to get the vote pushed back until after the presidential election.

This is the first time a SCOTUS nominee has ever been confirmed this close to a presidential election, with eight days to go.

“They’re rushing this nomination,” said Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-Connecticut).

Democrats argued the conservative leaning judge threatens abortion rights and access to health care.

“The consequences of this vote will be felt long after this president is gone from office,” said Sen. Patty Murray (D-Washington).

Democrats accused Republicans of rushing the confirmation process in order to get Barrett on the bench in time for the SCOTUS to hear a constitutional challenge to the Affordable Care Act.

“Republicans have instead made pushing this nomination through their top priority,” said Sen. Maggie Hassan (D-New Hampshire).

Republicans defended Barrett’s judicial record.

“She is a woman of unquestionable character and integrity,” said Sen. Mitt Romney (R-Utah).

“She’s certainly demonstrated her intellect,” said Sen. Todd Young (R-Indiana).

Republicans blasted Democrats for trying to block the vote.

“Democrats were never going to support this nomination no matter how supremely qualified the individual in question,” said Sen. John Thune (R-South Dakota).

Barrett’s confirmation gives the high court a six to three conservative majority.

Cox Media Group