Who appoints U.S. Supreme Court justices?

U.S. Supreme Court justices are appointed by the President of the United States. This process involves the President nominating an individual to fill a vacancy on the Court, which is often determined by the resignation, retirement, or death of a sitting justice. The nomination is a powerful tool for the President, as it allows them to influence the judicial landscape of the country for potentially decades, given that justices serve for life or until they choose to retire.

After the President makes a nomination, the Senate must confirm the appointment. This takes place through a series of hearings conducted by the Senate Judiciary Committee, followed by a vote in the full Senate. If a majority of Senators approve the nomination, the individual is confirmed and officially becomes a justice of the Supreme Court. This process underscores the balance of power in the federal system, where both the executive and legislative branches have roles in judicial appointments.

On the other hand, the Senate, House of Representatives, and Chief Justice do not appoint justices. The Senate's role is limited to confirmation after nomination, the House does not participate in the appointment process at all, and the Chief Justice, while a significant figure on the Court, does not have the authority to appoint other justices.