The United States Senate Judiciary Committee is to vote for the first time on the nomination of Brett Kavanaugh to the Supreme Court.

The vote follows a dramatic day of testimony from both Mr Kavanaugh and his sexual assault accuser, Dr Christine Blasey Ford.

Dr Ford, who was close to tears during Thursday's hearing, claimed Mr Kavanaugh attacked her at a party in 1982, describing the alleged incident in detail and how it has affected her life.

Donald Trump has thrown his weight behind his nomination for America's highest court despite the allegations.

Mr Kavanaugh's full vote is expected next week and, despite a Republican majority in the Senate of 51-49, the outcome is difficult to predict.