Senate opens up confirmation debate.
Judge Amy Coney Barrett could be confirmed as the next U.S. Supreme Court justice on Monday. The U.S. Senate voted in favor of opening up 30 hours worth of debate on her nomination today. Via The Hill: While Sunday’s vote is only a procedural step, it underscores that Republicans have the votes to place Barrett on the Supreme Court just days before the Nov.3 election. The timetable will set a new record for how close to a presidential election a nominee has been confirmed to the country’s highest court. The Supreme Court fires up the GOP base, handing Republicans a victory to tout as they try to shore up support in the final days before the election. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) in particular, has put a premium on confirming Trump’s judicial nominees, arguing it’s the best thing the party can do to have a long-term impact on the direction of the country. Democrats, obviously, see Monday’s coming vote as doom for America. From POLITICO: In their fight against Barrett, Democrats have focused almost exclusively on the future of the Affordable Care Act. The Supreme Court is set to hear oral arguments Nov.10 as part of the Trump administration’s challenge to the 2010 law, which could result in its wholesale invalidation. “Don’t forget it, America. Don’t forget what’s happening here, because it’s a travesty,” [Senate Majority Leader Chuck] Schumer said.
