I don't recall...
...The left saying no to Thomas because he was black. They were opposed to his record.
Sotomayer's record shows balance. She's qualified and a lock for the high court. If moderates had any sway in GOP politics they would make a little show of defiance and then pass on this battle. As it is with rightwing radio seizing control of the party, this could really get ugly. You might want to stick with the pro-torture issue.