Answer Key: Executive Offices: Appointments and Confirmations
- What power does the president have concerning “Officers of the United States”? He may nominate and appoint Officers of the United States.
- What power does the Senate have concerning “Officers of the United States”? It must give advice and consent before a nominated officer can be appointed.
- Why do you think both Congress and the president have a role in the appointment and confirmation of these officers? What constitutional principle does this process uphold? This process upholds the principle of separation of powers, as it allows both the legislature and the executive to have control over the appointment process.
- What is the role of the White House Office of Presidential Personnel in this process? This office vets a list of potential candidates.
- Why do you think so many separate groups are responsible for conducting their own background check on potential nominations? Answers may vary. Students should note the importance of executive officers in our system, and the importance of having the right people on the job.
- Why do you think specific Senate committees are initially tasked with recommending or not recommending a candidate to the whole body of the Senate? What are some potential advantages and disadvantages of carrying this process out in this manner? Answers may vary. Students should note that there are a large number of nominations, and splitting them up between committees initially will help ease the workload.
- What is “cloture”? What is its role in the confirmation process? In order for the Senate to end debate on whether to consent to an official’s appointment, a vote of cloture must pass via a 2/3rds majority.
- How many votes are needed in order for the Senate to confirm an official? Do you think this is an adequate number? A simple majority is needed to confirm an official. Answers may vary if this is an adequate number. Students should defend their answers.