Democrat Sen. Jeanne Shaheen will meet with Supreme Court nominee Merrick Garland this week, while Republican Sen. Kelly Ayotte is meeting with him next week.
Shaheen’s meeting is scheduled for this afternoon. Ayotte’s is planned for April 13.
Ayotte faces re-election in one of the Senate’s most high-profile races against popular Democratic Gov. Maggie Hassan.
She is part of a group of Republicans who have said they are willing to meet with President Obama’s nominee, but remain opposed to hearings and a vote. Shaheen has called for a hearing and a vote.
Ayotte said Monday she will meet with Garland out of courtesy and respect. She plans to explain her view “that the people should have a voice in this important nomination through their votes in November.”