Already, they're combing through the records of potential nominees, although not, as was the case with Chief Justice John Roberts and Justice Samuel Alito, in search of a way to derail confirmation.

Encouraged by the White House, they're trying to anticipate a selection, build the case for approval and be ready to deflect the attacks from conservatives already beginning.

"It's thrilling to be able to promote great judicial candidates," says Nan Aron, president of the Alliance For Justice, looking ahead to a selection by President Barack Obama that may come as early as this week or next.

Added Janet Murguia, the president of the National Council of La Raza, "We're all poised to support and mobilize for an excellent nominee."

Not that the liberal-leaning groups aren't trying to nudge Obama in one direction or another. While there is a general assumption that he will select a woman and a supporter of abortion rights, Latino leaders recently sent a list of more than 80 Hispanic judges to the White House, a not-too-subtle prod to the president.