This vote was a procedural step known as a 'cloture motion' regarding the presidential nomination PN730-19. In the Senate, cloture is used to bring debate on a matter to a close. If the Senate does not vote to end debate, opponents can theoretically continue talking indefinitely to prevent a final vote from occurring. Under current Senate rules for executive and judicial nominations, only a simple majority of senators present is required to end debate and proceed to a final vote. This procedural rule, often referred to as the 'nuclear option' reform from 2013, allows the majority party to overcome opposition more easily than the 60-vote threshold required for most legislation. By agreeing to end debate with a 50-45 vote, the Senate has cleared the way for a final confirmation vote on the nominee. The vote was notably bipartisan, as both the Democratic and Republican parties were split internally on whether to allow the nomination to proceed.