Who has the power to confirm Supreme Court justices?

The power to confirm Supreme Court justices lies with the Senate. This process is a crucial part of the checks and balances established by the U.S. Constitution. When the President appoints a Supreme Court justice, that appointment must then be approved by a majority vote in the Senate. This requirement ensures that no single branch of government has unchecked authority over judicial appointments, promoting a system of mutual oversight among the executive and legislative branches.

The role of the Senate includes holding confirmation hearings, during which senators can ask the nominee questions about their qualifications, judicial philosophy, and past judicial decisions. Following these hearings, the Senate votes on whether to confirm the nominee. This process not only allows for scrutiny of potential justices but also reflects the Senate's duty to represent the interests of the citizens they serve. The involvement of the Senate in this process highlights the collaborative nature of governance in the United States, emphasizing the importance of consensus and accountability in appointments to one of the nation's highest courts.