Members of both parties on Capitol Hill fully expect that Elena Kagan will be confirmed to the Supreme Court. Democrats are mostly pleased about that, though not overly enthusiastic. Republicans responded that they are more resigned to the outcome than disappointed; few are hostile.

According to the new National Journal Congressional Insiders poll, 51 percent of Dems were "satisfied" and another 39 percent were "enthusiastic" about Kagan's nomination. They emphasized her legal competence, and one called her "a breath of fresh air."

The reservations among some Dems stemmed from their sense that she is not sufficiently liberal. One lamented, "It's great to have another woman, but I'd like to see someone who can balance Scalia and Thomas" -- the Court's conservative stalwarts. Another Dem responded, "I would have preferred John Stevens' replacement was closer to his judicial view, but she is obviously qualified."

Among Republicans, there was a grudging acceptance, with 58 percent "resigned to the choice," 33 percent "disappointed," and only 6 percent "hostile." One voiced the pragmatic view, "There are consequences to losing elections. Elena Kagan is one of them."

Read more at Hotline On Call.