(CN) - Democrats on the Senate Judiciary Committee on Monday forced the delay of a vote on Supreme Court nominee Neil Gorsuch, with his nomination now not slated to go to the full Senate until next week.
At least 17 Democrats and independents, led by Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, have come out in opposition of Gorsuch, arguing that the appellate court judge has too often ruled in favor of corporations and is unlikely to stray far from the agenda espoused of President Donald Trump.
Democrats have also criticized Gorsuch for not giving them clear enough answers on a number of issues, including abortion and campaign finance.
Republicans, on the other hand, have praised Gorsuch as forthright and undeniably quality to sit on the nation's top court.
The Democrats have also said they plan to try to filibuster next week's vote by the full Senate, potentially forcing Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., to hold a procedural vote requiring 60 votes to move forward.
Republicans have a 52-48 majority, so at least eight Democrats and independents will have to vote with Republicans.
The Senate Judiciary Committee will meet again April 3 to recommend Gorsuch to the full Senate favorably or unfavorably.
McConnell has said he hopes to confirm Gorsuch before the Senate leaves for a two-week recess and in time for the Court's April arguments.
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