What are two powers specifically designated to the Senate?

Two powers specifically designated to the United States Senate are the power to confirm presidential appointments and the power to ratify treaties.

1. Confirmation of Presidential Appointments: The Senate has the authority to confirm or reject the individuals the President nominates for certain positions within the federal government. This includes Cabinet members, federal judges, and ambassadors. Confirmation requires a simple majority vote.

2. Ratification of Treaties: The Senate is also responsible for the ratification of international treaties negotiated by the President. For a treaty to be ratified and become legally binding, it must be approved by a two-thirds majority in the Senate.

The powers designated to the Senate are part of the system of checks and balances established by the U.S. Constitution to prevent any one branch of government from becoming too powerful. By giving the Senate the power to confirm appointments and ratify treaties, the framers ensured that the executive branch would have some level of oversight from the legislative branch.

The Senate's role in confirming appointments is particularly significant for the federal judiciary, including the Supreme Court, where judges serve for life. This gives the Senate a critical role in shaping the long-term composition of the federal bench.

In terms of treaties, the Senate's ratification process allows elected representatives to review the agreements made by the President to ensure they are in the nation's best interest. This treaty-making power demonstrates the importance of having the legislative branch's input on international commitments, reflecting the collective judgment of the states and the people they represent.