Judge Sonia Sotomayor was confirmed today as the newest Justice of the United States Supreme Court, becoming the first Hispanic Justice and only the third woman ever to serve on the Court. The vote confirming her was 68-31, with all Democrats voting in favor (Edward Kennedy absent) along with nine Republicans, including Susan Collins and Olympia Snowe, and Judd Gregg of New Hampshire. From the Globe:

Janet Murguía, of the National Council of La Raza, the nation’s largest Hispanic advocacy group, said in a statement:

“August 6, 2009 marks a watershed moment for this great nation, and it is a date that will quickly take hold in the memories of millions of Hispanic Americans of all ages and backgrounds,” stated . “History was made today and our country will be the better for it. As was evident in her poised and thoughtful appearance before the Senate Judiciary Committee, Sotomayor will bring to the Supreme Court a compelling life story, 30 years of extensive experience in the law, 17 notable years on the federal bench, and a dedication to the Constitution and to the rule of law.”

A big win for President Obama! His team displayed great skill in negotiating this nominee to sucess with ease, and picking up some bipartisan support while they were at it.