Number: RL33009
Title: Recess Appointments: A Legal Overview
Authors: T.J. Halstead, American Law Division 
Abstract: In addition to fostering administrative continuity, Presidents have exercised authority under the Recess Appointments Clause for political purposes, appointing officials who might have difficulty securing Senate confirmation. Coupled with the ambiguities inherent in interpreting the Clause, the President's use of the recess appointment power in such a fashion has given rise to significant political and legal controversy since the beginning of the Republic. This report provides an overview of the Clause, with a focus on its historical application and interpretation. This report is a companion piece to CRS Report RL32971, Judicial Recess Appointments: A Legal Overview, by T.J. Halstead (2005), which focuses specifically on the application and interpretation of the Clause in the judicial context.
Pages: 19
Date: July 11, 2007