Sotomayor confirmed by Senate, 68-31

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The U.S. Senate today confirmed Judge Sonia Sotomayor to the U.S. Supreme Court. She is the first Hispanic and the third woman to serve on the court.

Our very own Sen. Al Franken presided over the vote today and announced the final 68-31 vote largely along party lines.

Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. will conduct the oath of office in the next few days, according to the New York Times.

This was Franken's second time proceeding over votes in the Senate, said his spokeswoman Jess McIntosh in the Star Tribune. The position is often given to the newbie senators so they can learn the Senate procedures.

More from the Star Tribune:

Though it may seem symbolic that Senate's newest member would preside during the vote, McIntosh wrote in an e-mail, "We were just told our turn in the rotation had come up."

Given the simplicity of the vote (no amendments, etc.) Franken will not likely have to make any important calls. He will, however, sit at the front of the Senate on a raised platform directing the process.