[JURIST] The US Senate Monday afternoon will take up the confirmation of Chief Justice nominee Judge John Roberts [JURIST news archive], with two-thirds of the 100 senators having already announced their support. The Senate Judiciary Committee voted to recommend Roberts [JURIST report] for nomination last week by a margin of 13-5, and Roberts is expected to reach the necessary majority vote by the full Senate since all 55 Republicans are anticipated to vote in favor of his confirmation. Of the 44 Democratic Senators, 13 have announced their support of Roberts thusfar, saying that despite their concerns about how Roberts will rule, he is certainly qualified for the Chief Justice role. Meanwhile, Democrats opposing Roberts worry that he will be "staunchly conservative" like Justices Clarence Thomas and Antonin Scalia. The Senate vote is expected to take place no later than Thursday in time for the opening of the Supreme Court's 2005-2006 term on October 3. AP has more. A live webcast of the Senate debate will be available beginning 1:00 PM ET.