Senate backs Roberts for Supreme Court post
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The Republican majority on the 18-member panel was behind Judge Roberts. But his position became even more secure when Patrick Leahy, the senior Democrat on the committee, said he would vote in favour.
This is despite complaints by Democrats that Mr Roberts, who would replace the late Chief Justice William Rehnquist, was anything but forthcoming during testimony to the committee on his views on issues such as abortion and the relationship between religion and the state.
The Roberts confirmation process has produced a rare victory for President Bush, and left the Democrats in disarray. Despite some planned opposition when the nomination comes to the Senate floor on 29 September, several of the 44 Senate Democrats plan to support the nominee. He is likely to be confirmed with a majority of 65 or more of the 100-strong chamber.
But Mr Bush's next nominee, to replace Sandra Day O'Connor, faces a much rougher ride. Ms O'Connor was a key swing vote on a court that frequently split 5 to 4. If Mr Bush tries to tilt it to the right with an unabashedly conservative nominee, Democrats will put up fierce resistance.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments