
Supreme Court nominations
Supreme Court nominations occur when a vacancy arises, often due to retirement or death of a justice. The President selects a candidate, who then undergoes a thorough review process, including hearings before the Senate Judiciary Committee. This committee questions the nominee’s background, qualifications, and views. If they approve, the full Senate votes to confirm the appointment. Once confirmed, the justice serves a lifetime term, influencing US law on major issues. The process balances presidential appointment power with Senate oversight to ensure the nominee is suitable to interpret the Constitution and federal laws.