Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2009 | 10:12 a.m.
Federal Judge Sonia Sotomayor, U.S. Supreme Court nominee, testifies at her confirmation hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee in Washington on July 16.
WASHINGTON -- Republican Sen. John Ensign said today he will vote against the nomination of Sonia Sotomayor to the U.S. Supreme Court.
Ensign joins more than 20 Republican senators who have expressed their opposition to the president's choice for the high court.
Opposing the first Hispanic nominee could have political fallout for Ensign and the Republican Party, which has been trying to mend relations with Hispanic voters who are a growing constituency especially in Nevada and other Southwestern states.
In issuing a statement announcing his opposition, Ensign said:
“While I believe Judge Sotomayor is an impressive role model for millions of Americans, I take my responsibility as Nevada’s Senator very seriously, and feel I need to protect the sanctity of our Constitution.
“Judge Sotomayor’s record and testimony provide uncertainty and doubt that she will rule with a fair and impartial adherence to the rule of law."
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