“Judge Sotomayor is knowledgeable of the law, would be a fair and impartial judge, and seems to have a good understanding of the limited role the judiciary plays in our democracy. Judge Sotomayor’s rise to the Supreme Court is testimony to the fact that the American dream continues to be attainable. As an Hispanic American, I take great pride in Judge Sotomayor’s historic achievement. Given her qualifications and testimony this week, I intend to vote in favor of her confirmation.”

— Sen. Mel Martinez (R-Fla.), who is not running for re-election, announcing his intention to vote to confirm Judge Sonia Sotomayor for the Supreme Court.

“I have reviewed and reflected upon her testimony before the Senate Judiciary Committee, and come to the conclusion that I cannot support her appointment to the United States Supreme Court. Judge Sotomayor is worthy of respect for her many accomplishments and her remarkable story of success. However, I have strong concerns that Judge Sotomayor would not strictly and objectively construe the constitution and lacks respect for the fundamental right to keep and bear arms. For these reasons, I cannot support her appointment to the highest court in the land.”

— Gov. Charlie Crist (R-Fla.), who is running for the seat currently held by Sen. Mel Martinez, and whose primary opponent, former House Speaker Marco Rubio (R-Miami), went on the record opposing Sotomayor’s confirmation the day before Charlie’s announcement. Crist’s statement left Floridians wondering when they’d ever heard the governor mention his support for gun rights in the past.