Some critics of Barrett are invoking “The Handmaid’s Tale,” a dystopian feminist novel in which conservative Christians have stripped away women’s rights, as a symbol of their fear that her conservative religious beliefs could reshape American society. Supporters are raising claims of anti-Catholic bigotry, both in response to the critics and in anticipation what they say would be the onslaught to come if Barrett were nominated.

“We will be watching this carefully,” said Bill Donahue, president of the Catholic League, an anti-discrimination group.

Citing alleged anti-Catholic bias, the group called on Tuesday for five high-profile Democratic senators — Chuck Schumer, Dianne Feinstein, Dick Durbin, Mazie Hirono and Kamala Harris — to recuse themselves if Barrett or the other leading contender, 11th Circuit Judge Barbara Lagoa, who is also Catholic, are nominated.

The group cited past comments by the five senators that it argued brought inappropriate attention to Barrett’s religion.