The appointment of the United States' first Supreme Court judge of Latin-American origin is a step closer. The Senate Judiciary Committee has recommended the nomination of Sonia Sotomayor, who was put forward for the Supreme Court by President Barack Obama.

Twelve Democrat committee members and one Republican voted for her appointment and six Republicans voted against. The Senate is almost certain to follow the committee's advice and make Ms Sotomayor the third woman to serve on the US Supreme Court. Its decision is expected at the end of next week.

photo: Sonia Sotomayor (flickr/Roberthuffstutter)