Biden to nominate Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson to the Supreme Court

President Joe Biden has nominated Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson to the Supreme Court, calling her "one of the nation's brightest legal minds".

She will be the first black woman to serve in the court's 233-year history if confirmed.

She would replace liberal Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer when he retires at the end of the court's term in June.

Ms Jackson, a federal appeals judge, said on Friday she was "humbled" by the nomination.

Announcing the nomination on Friday, President Biden described Judge Jackson as an "extraordinary" candidate, with an "independent mind, uncompromising integrity and a strong moral compass".

With the Senate divided 50-50 between the parties, Democrats have just enough votes to confirm President Biden's choice if they all back her. Vice President Kamala Harris has the deciding vote in the case of a tie.