Mo. senators support justice nomination

WASHINGTON -- Sen. Kit Bond gave Supreme Court pick Samuel A. Alito a vote of confidence Monday, saying the nominee shows "a clear and firm understanding" of constitutional law.

"It's clear to all but the most partisan individuals that Judge Alito's impressive legal education and professional experience make him eminently qualified to serve on the Supreme Court," said Bond, R-Mo.

The state's other senator, Republican Jim Talent, also praised Alito.

"Judge Alito has had a distinguished career of service and he has extensive legal experience," Talent said in a written statement. "His record needs to be thoroughly vetted during the confirmation process, but he appears to be a highly qualified nominee."

-- The Associated Press