This vote was a motion to invoke "cloture" on presidential nomination PN373. Cloture is a procedural step used to limit debate on a matter and move toward a final vote. In this case, the Senate decided whether to stop debating this specific presidential appointment and proceed to the actual vote on whether to confirm the individual to their position. Under traditional Senate rules, most matters require a three-fifths majority (usually 60 votes) to end a filibuster or continuous debate. However, under current procedures established by the "nuclear option" in 2013, most executive-branch and lower-court nominations require only a simple majority of those voting to end debate and move to a final vote. The motion was successful with 51 senators in favor and 42 against. While the Democratic caucus was largely supportive, the Republican caucus was split. Because the "yes" votes outnumbered the "no" votes, debate is now officially closed, and the Senate will proceed to a final confirmation vote on the nominee.