Eric Garcetti cleared a key procedural hurdle in his nomination to become the U.S. ambassador to India, setting the stage for a full Senate confirmation vote on Wednesday afternoon.

The Senate voted 52-42 to end debate and advance Garcetti’s nomination to the floor, an outcome that was far from certain heading into Wednesday.

His nomination had been stalled for well over a year amid allegations he knew about sexual harassment allegations against one of his staffers. With Democrats uncomfortable over the scandal, it was unclear just how much support President Joe Biden's nominee would garner from members of his own party. Sen. Dick Durbin (D-IL) said on Tuesday he did not whip Democrats to vote one way or another.

Ultimately, seven Republicans joined Democrats to advance Garcetti's nomination.

SENATE COMMITTEE ADVANCES GARCETTI’S NOMINATION TO BECOME AMBASSADOR TO INDIA

The Senate Foreign Relations Committee voted to advance Garcetti’s nomination last week, signaling some hope to the Biden administration as it seeks to fill the position. Garcetti was able to garner support from two Republicans on the committee, suggesting he had some leeway to lose a few Democratic votes and still clinch the nomination.

Garcetti was also able to secure the support of Democratic Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (NY), who initially said she would vote against him, further buoying his prospects.

President Joe Biden nominated Garcetti to the position in July 2021, and he was cleared by the Senate Foreign Relations Committee shortly thereafter. However, his nomination was stalled amid revelations about a sexual harassment lawsuit involving a former top adviser.

Garcetti testified at his confirmation hearing in December 2021 that he “never witnessed, nor was it brought to my attention, the behavior that’s been alleged.” However, a report from Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-IA) concluded it was “extremely unlikely” that Garcetti was unaware of the allegations against his staffer.

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Biden renominated Garcetti earlier this year for consideration in the new Congress after Democrats expanded their majority in the Senate by one seat. The White House has maintained Garcetti has Biden’s full support and is "well-qualified to serve in this vital role."

A majority vote is needed for the Senate to confirm Garcetti. That could prove to be difficult for the Biden nominee as he faces GOP opposition and absences from Democratic Sens. John Fetterman (PA) and Dianne Feinstein (CA).

A vote before the full Senate is scheduled for 2:15 p.m.