Hatch Says He'll Vote Against Kagan's Nomination

GOP Sen. Orrin Hatch of Utah says he'll oppose Solicitor General Elena Kagan's nomination to the Supreme Court.

Hatch is a former Senate Judiciary chairman and a current committee member who supported Kagan's installation as U.S. solicitor general.

The Senate Judiciary Committee wrapped up Kagan's confirmation hearing on Thursday. A vote on her nomination is expected within a few weeks.

Hatch said Friday that a Supreme Court nominee needs "both legal experience and, more importantly, the appropriate judicial philosophy." And he said that "General Kagan regrettably does not meet this standard." GOP Sen. James Inhofe of Oklahoma also has said he will oppose Kagan's confirmation, although she is expected to be approved by the full Senate.