The vote by the Judiciary Committee reflects the fact that John Roberts is an exceptional nominee with a conservative judicial philosophy - a philosophy that represents mainstream America.

We can constitutionally extirpate slavery at this time. But if we fail to do this, then unless we intend hereafter to violate the Constitution, we shall have a fugitive slave law in operation whenever the war is over.

We've been following Judge Alito's career over the last 15 years, while he's been on the Court of Appeals.

This is the most historic moment in Supreme Court history in our lifetime, no question about it. These are justices who are going to serve for decades.