The Senate today begins a historic debate on the nomination of Judge Sonia Sotomayor to the Supreme Court.

Democrats appear unanimous in their support of Sotomayor, the first Hispanic nominee, while most Republicans have branded her an activist judge.

Democrats say it's not the case but Arizona Sen. John McCain is among Republicans who claim her track record says otherwise.

McCain is one of several Republican senators who plan to vote against Sotomayor despite their large Hispanic constituencies.

Only a handful of Republicans are supporting the nominee and no Democrat has spoken out against Sotomayor, whose confirmation is said to be virtually assured.