Number: RS20986
Title: Senate Confirmation Process: A Brief Overview
Authors: Lorraine H. Tong, Government and Finance Division 
Abstract: The Senate gives its advice and consent to presidential appointments to the Supreme Court and to high-level positions in the Cabinet departments and independent agencies. The Senate also confirms appointments of members of regulatory commissions, ambassadors, federal judges, U.S. attorneys, and U.S. marshals. There are more than 2,000 of these appointments. Appointees named to be Supreme Court justices and Cabinet secretaries receive the Senate's closest scrutiny due to the significance of these positions. About 99% of all presidential appointments are approved.
Pages: 3
Date: December 1, 2008