Two people familiar with the process say the White House is considering Republican Gov. Brian Sandoval of Nevada as one of several potential nominees to the Supreme Court.

The nomination of a Republican would be seen as an attempt by President Obama to court the Senate GOP. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell has said they will not hold hearings or vote on Obama’s pick.

Sandoval is a former federal judge who supports abortion rights. He met with Senate Democratic Leader Harry Reid Monday.

The governor said over the weekend he was honored his name was mentioned but had heard nothing to think the Democratic president is considering him.

The officials declined to be named because they weren’t authorized to speak publicly.

Sandoval’s consideration was first reported by The Washington Post.

(AP)