Who confirms presidential appointments?

Certain presidential appointments must be confirmed by the U.S. Senate, as specified in the U.S. Constitution. The number of appointments that require Senate approval, referred to as PAS appointments, depends on the presidency but typically includes all executive department secretaries, undersecretaries, inspectors general and numerous other positions.

The appointment confirmation process begins with a list of applicants vetted by the White House Office of Presidential Personnel based on recommendations from the Senate and lobbyists. The president submits a written proposal to the Senate advising of his nomination, at which point committees begin hearings before the Senate makes its final choice.