How do the responsibilities of the legislative and executive branches differ when it comes to appointing new Supreme Court justices?

Social Studies · High School · Tue Nov 03 2020

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The responsibilities of the legislative and executive branches differ significantly when it comes to appointing new Supreme Court justices in the United States.

  • Executive Branch (President): The President has the authority and responsibility to nominate individuals to fill vacancies on the Supreme Court. Once nominated, the President's role is to select a candidate they believe is qualified and suitable for the position.
  • Legislative Branch (Senate): The Senate plays a role in the confirmation process. After the President nominates a candidate, the Senate holds confirmation hearings to assess the nominee's qualifications, judicial philosophy, and suitability for the position. The Senate Judiciary Committee conducts these hearings, questioning the nominee. Ultimately, the entire Senate votes to confirm or reject the nominee.

Therefore, while the President nominates Supreme Court justices, the Senate has the responsibility to confirm or reject the nominee, exercising a "check and balance" function on the President's appointment power.

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