Senate Confirmation Process: An Overview

Publication Date: April 2003

Publisher: Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Author(s):

Research Area: Government

Type:

Abstract:

The role of the Senate in the confirmation process is defined in the Constitution. Article II, Section 2 provides that the President “shall nominate, and by and with the Advice and Consent of the Senate, shall appoint high government officials.” All positions requiring confirmation are set by statute. Senate Rule XXXI regulates proceedings on nominations in executive sessions (“executive” in this case refers to executive business, not to a closed or secret session). Each Senate committee may adopt its own procedures as long as they do not conflict with Senate rules. For more information on legislative process, see [http://www.crs.gov/products/guides/guidehome.shtml ].