Amy Coney Barrett was sworn in by Justice Clarence Thomas Thursday night on the South Lawn of the White House.

The confirmation by the U.S. Senate happened around 8 p.m., just eight days ahead of the election.

The 48-year-old federal appeals judge is now the newest member of the Supreme Court. Democrats have been arguing for weeks that the vote was being rushed and insisted the nominee should be named by the winner of the presidential election.

MORE: US Senate confirms Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court

"Tonight the Republican Senate majority decided to thwart the will of the people and confirm a lifetime appointment to the Supreme Court in the middle of a presidential election after more than 60 million Americans have voted," said Sen. Charles Schumer.

Republicans, however, maintain that the process is entirely constitutional.

"It's entirely constitutional, she's extremely well qualified and the Democrats are making the political argument, which I understand, saying that because of the election they should put it off, but it's just a matter of preference, under the Constitution the president has the right to do it," said Rep. Peter King.

Experts say Barrett gives conservatives a 6-3 majority on the Supreme Court.

"It's a move that could have dramatic implications for a whole host of issues that could soon come before the justices, including any potential election disputes, the future of the Affordable Care Act and Roe v. Wade."