Samuel Alito took another step toward confirmation for the Supreme Court justice seat Tuesday after a ten to eight vote of approval by the Senate Judiciary Committee.
Unlike Roberts' confirmation, the Senate Judiciary Committee voted along party lines, with Republicans voting for and Democrats voting against Alito.
The full Senate is expected to take the final vote on Alito's confirmation before the end of the week. That vote is also expected to follow along party lines, with only one Democrat - Ben Nelson of Nebraska - coming out so far in support of Alito.
Republicans hold the balance of power in the Senate 55-44, with one Independent.
Joseph Losco, chairman of the department of political science at Ball State University, said with the confirmation of Chief Justice John Roberts and the possible confirmation of Alito, the Supreme Court would clearly have a more conservative tilt.
And some cases that are brought to the court in the future could affect issues that pertain to students, he said.
"If Alito is confirmed, cases involving affirmative action could affect universities and professional schools," Losco said.
Steve Nawara, president of the University Democrats, said he also thought cases involving affirmative action would arise.
"Other issues that not only affect dents but also citizens would be environmental regulations on business and abortion," Nawara said. "While I do not think Alito is the best choice for the country, it is hard to tell how things will play out on the court."
Roger Hollands, a political science professor, said it would be important to see how justices view their roles, how they adhere to past decisions and whether they follow the real meaning of the Constitution or have more flexibility.
Alito was nominated by President Bush after his first choice, Harriet Miers, had to withdraw her candidacy.
"He is a much better selection than Miers," Luke Harris, a member of the University Republicans, said. "Bush got it right the second time in this case."
Harris said Democratic senators were trying to find problems with Alito, but Harris didn't think there were any other then the fact Alito is somewhat conservative.
"He has a thorough legal background," Harris said. "He has the American Bar Association's highest approval rating, and he has answered all questions regarding his candidacy admirably."
If confirmed, Alito will replace Justice Sandra Day O'Connor, who said she would retire as soon as a successor was chosen.
Nawara said O'Connor tended to be the practical swing vote.
"The question that needs to be asked is will Alito be as pragmatic as O'Connor," Nawara said.
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