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Sen. Collins Mum On Kavanaugh Vote As Pressure Grows

Jose Luis Magana
/
AP Photo
Sen. Collins speaks with Supreme Court nominee Judge Brett Kavanaugh at her office before a private meeting on Capitol Hill in Washington Aug. 21, 2018.

The end of contentious confirmation hearings for U.S. Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh is shifting the focus to potential swing votes, like Republican Sen. Susan Collins of Maine.

If Collins votes yes, then he's likely confirmed. She and Republican Sen. Lisa Murkowski of Alaska would likely have to both vote "no" for Kavanaugh to be blocked.

In keeping with her deliberative approach, Collins is keeping mum as she continues her vetting process. Still, she's sent signals that Kavanaugh cleared a hurdle by telling her that he views Roe v. Wade establishing abortion rights as settled law.

Critics say Collins' deliberations are a charade. But Collins said others jumped to conclusions without giving Kavanaugh due consideration.