The Ricci decision, much watched as part of the Sotomayor confirmation process, just came down. The Supreme Court reversed in a close decision. That is, the majority did not agree with Sotomayor.

Quick read from CBS News' legal affairs guru Andrew Cohen: "Could have been a lot worse for Sotomayor, whose candidacy for Court finds solace from four dissenting Justices. Political damage minimum."

Majority opinion by Kennedy, joined by Roberts, Scalia, Thomas, and Alito. Separate concurring opinions by Scalia and Alito. Dissent by Ginsburg, joined by Stevens, Souter and Breyer.

Late Update: The RNC reacts.