Kagan pledges modest approach as justice

By MARK SHERMAN Associated Press Writer

WASHINGTON (AP) - Facing questions from skeptical Republicans, President Barack Obama's nominee for the Supreme Court, Elena Kagan, is likely to be pressed to say just how deferential she might be to lawmakers as a justice on the high court.

Kagan's confirmation hearing resumes Tuesday morning before the Senate Judiciary Committee. Senators spent Monday making statements and then listening to Kagan's own opening remarks.

Kagan followed the path of other recent Supreme Court nominees, pledging a fair shake for all Americans and promising to be impartial. She insisted she will defer as is proper to the laws passed by Congress while also assuring that individuals maintain their rights under the Constitution.