Judge Amy Coney Barrett has been confirmed and sworn in as the newest U.S. Supreme Court Associate Justice.
On Monday, Oct. 26, members of the U.S. Senate confirmed Barrett by a 52-48 vote, split almost entirely down party lines. Only Maine Senator Susan Collins, a Republican, voted against Barrett’s confirmation.
Following the confirmation vote, Associate Justice Clarence Thomas swore Barrett into office, administering the constitutional oath of office, at the White House. Barrett is expected to begin her duties on Tuesday once she takes the judicial oath of office, administered by Chief Justice John Roberts at the Supreme Court building.
With Barrett’s confirmation, the Supreme Court has tilted to the right ideologically. Barrett will become the sixth conservative justice on the court, joining Roberts, Thomas, Brett Kavanaugh, Samuel Alito and Neil Gorusch.
Gov. Asa Hutchinson released a statement after Barrett’s confirmation, praising her selection to the court.
“President Trump chose wisely, and Judge Barrett will be an excellent addition to the Supreme Court,” Hutchinson said. “Her originalist view of the Constitution is essential to the rule of law. I am confident she will base her decisions on the law rather than a modern interpretation designed to please a certain constituency.”
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