The U.S. Senate is expected to confirm Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court tonight

Washington, D.C. — After hours of debate from both sides of the aisle, senators are expected to confirm a new justice to the nation’s highest court, just eight days before the presidential election.

Senate Democrats have argued against confirming Judge Amy Coney Barrett, saying the conservative-leaning judge poses a threat to abortion rights and access to healthcare.

They failed to push the vote back until after the election, saying Republicans were rushing the process to get Barrett on the bench in time to hear a constitutional challenge to the Affordable Care Act.

“Republicans have instead made pushing this nomination through their top priority,” said Sen. Maggie Hassan, D-New Hampshire.

Republicans have defended Barrett’s record.

“She’s a woman of unquestionable character and integrity," said Sen. Mitt Romney, R-Utah.

Barrett’s confirmation will give the high court a six to three conservative majority. This will also mark the first time a Supreme Court Justice nominee will be confirmed this close to a presidential election.

Roundhouse at Hazelwood Green undergoing transformation

Cox Media Group