The Senate Judiciary Committee approved the nomination of Kansas' top federal prosecutor to serve on the federal bench in Wichita.

The approval sends the nomination of U.S. Attorney Eric Melgren to a vote in the full Senate. With Congress set to recess prior to the November election, lawmakers are having to act quickly to confirm Melgren.

If confirmed, Melgren would replace U.S. District Judge Monti Belot, who took senior status earlier this year. Melgren was nominated for the position in July.