Republicans plowed ahead Tuesday with Judge Amy Coney Barretts confirmation hearing, with senators on the Senate Judiciary Committee getting their first crack at publicly questioning President Donald Trumps Supreme Court nominee.

They made it pretty easy for Barrett.

Hours into the hearing, Republicans were lobbing the softest of softball questions.

Do you speak any foreign languages? asked Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas). Do you play any instruments?

Why do judges in our system wear robes? asked Sen. Ben Sasse (R-Neb.).

Youre a very accomplished jurist in your own right, is that fair to say? Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) asked with a smile.

The real pressure was on Democrats, though, from whom progressives have been demanding a fiery and united show of opposition , framing Barrett as an illegitimate nominee in an illegitimate process weeks before an election in which people are already voting.

Trump and Republican senators are rushing to confirm Barrett in the event Joe Biden wins on Nov. 3, in which case theyd face tremendous pressure to let him fill the court vacancy in 2021. Thats in addition to Trump wanting Barrett seated in time for an Affordable Care Act case coming before the court on Nov. 10. The president also hasnt been subtle about saying he wants her on the court in the event it has to decide the outcome of the election.

Democrats didnt exactly come out swinging.

I was wondering if you might introduce us to family members in the audience, began Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), the ranking member.

You dont have a magic formula for how you do it and handle all the children and your job and your work and your thoughts process, which is obviously excellent, do you? said Feinstein.

Its improv, laughed Barrett.

The California Democrat made light talk about Barretts family again later: Youve got a lovely family. You understand all the implications of family life, she said. Im proud of you for that.

Sen. Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.) had some friendly family talk, too.

Its obvious your family is very important to you, he told Barrett, noting hes been married 50 years. Our children and our grandchildren are the most important things in our life. Its a privilege to see you introduce the family.