Why the Senate GOP Is Choosing Confirmation Gridlock

Senate Republicans could allow President Trump to use recess appointments to fill vacancies and free up scarce floor time. The procedure is available. Republicans control both chambers. The question is why they prefer not to use it.

Congress, Constitution, Presidency, SenateJames WallnerAugust 21, 2026Donald Trump, Confirmation Process, recess appointments, advice and consent, Judicial Nominations, civilian nominations, Ron Johnson, John Boozman, Jim Justice, Jim Banks, August recess, pro forma sessionsComment

Judicial sortition helps Congress and the Supreme Court

Congress, Supreme CourtJames WallnerNovember 12, 2022Confirmation Process, judicial supremacy, Judicial Nominations, JudiciaryComment

Whatever happened to true 'advice and consent' in Supreme Court confirmation hearings?

Senate, Presidency, Political TheoryJames WallnerOctober 16, 2020Confirmation Process, James Madison, Alexander Hamilton, Judicial Nominations, Amy Coney BarrettComment

Confirmation Wars and Constitutional Authority (Part I)

For today’s senators, the ends always justify the means