Does the President choose US Supreme Court justices?

Answer 1

No. According to the Constitution, the President appoints US Supreme Court justices "with the advice and consent" of the Senate. The House of Representatives plays no role in the selection process.


For more information about the Constitution and the Supreme Court selection process, see Related Questions, below.

Answer 2

Yes. The President nominates candidates to fill vacancies on the US Supreme Court, as necessary. The Senate must approve the nomination by a simple majority vote (51% of those present) in order to complete the appointment.

Answer 3

Yes. When there is a vacancy on the US Supreme Court, the sitting President nominates a new justice to serve on the Court. The nomination is then presented to the Senate Judiciary Committee which conducts an investigation and hearing, then sends the nomination to the floor for a Senate vote. If a simple majority (51%) of those present and voting agree, the nominee is confirmed and becomes a Supreme Court justice. If the Senate votes no, the President must start all over with a new nominee.

Answer 4

Yes. The sitting President nominates a justice to the Supreme Court if a vacancy occurs during his (or her) term of office. The nomination must be approved by a 51% vote of the Senate in order to become an appointment.