Brett Kavanaugh will be the newest associate justice of the U.S. Supreme Court. Kavanaugh was narrowly confirmed by the Senate today, 50-48. Kavanaugh's confirmation followed a tumultuous confirmation process, highlighted by sexual assault allegations against the federal judge. Kavanaugh loudly rejected the accusations. Protesters tried to interrupt the Senate vote and were removed from the visitors' gallery by Capitol Police.
In the final debate, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell called Kavanaugh a brilliant student of the law. He said Kavanaugh is a man of the highest caliber and is extremely well-qualified for the high court. Democratic leader Chuck Schumer accused Kavanaugh of being an "extreme partisan" who does not have the temperament or integrity to be on the Supreme Court. He called the confirmation process one of the saddest chapters in Senate history and a low moment for the nation. President Trump tapped Kavanaugh to replace retired Supreme Court Justice Anthony Kennedy.
After the vote, President Trump tweeted, "I applaud and congratulate the U.S. Senate for confirming our GREAT NOMINEE, Judge Brett Kavanaugh, to the United States Supreme Court. Later today, i will sign his Commission of Appointment, and he will be officially sworn in. Very exciting!"