by Laura Conaway

One of the most outspoken opponents of Supreme Court nominee Sonia Sotomayor has signaled a clear path to a vote for her confirmation. Sen. Jeff Sessions of Alabama, the ranking Republican member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, told Sotomayor at today's hearing, "I look forward to you getting that vote before we recess in August."

Sessions said he still had "serious concerns" about Sotomayor, but also said he won't support attempts to block a final vote on her nomination. AP says the committee is expected to vote on confirming Sotomayor late this month.