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Senate GOP to try to end debate, force Alito vote

Democratic critics of Supreme Court nominee Samuel Alito threatened to block a vote on his confirmation Thursday, and Republicans countered with a move designed to ensure his approval.
/ Source: The Associated Press

Die-hard Democratic critics of Supreme Court nominee Samuel Alito threatened to block a vote on his confirmation Thursday, and Republicans countered with a move designed to ensure his approval by early next week.

“It is time to establish an end point” in the debate over President Bush’s selection to replace Justice Sandra Day O’Connor, said Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist, R-Tenn.

The Senate will vote Monday on cutting off debate. If Alito’s supporters get 60 votes in the 100-member body, the confirmation vote will follow on Tuesday.