WASHINGTON, Jan. 30 (UPI) -- U.S. senators voted late Monday to end debate on the Supreme Court nomination of Samuel Alito, clearing the way for a final confirmation vote.
The so-called cloture vote to end debate after four days was 72-25, with 60 votes needed to carry the motion and quell the threat of a Democrat-led filibuster. Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist, R-Tenn., set an 11 a.m. EST Tuesday vote on the nomination.
Alito now appears set to become the 110th justice of the Supreme Court of the United States since 57 senators -- including Democrats Robert Byrd of West Virginia, Kent Conrad of North Dakota, Tim Johnson of South Dakota and Ben Nelson of Nebraska -- have stated they would vote for confirmation. A total of 51 votes wins Alito confirmation.
The only Republican who said he would vote against Alito was Lincoln Chafee, R-R.I.
Sen. John Kerry, D-Mass., led the effort to try to filibuster Alito's confirmation, saying the nominee was on the wrong on issues such as personal rights, civil rights and separation of powers.
Alito was nominated to replace Sandra Day O'Connor on the Supreme Court. O'Connor said in July she wished to retire as soon as her successor is confirmed.
