Understanding Presidential Appointment Powers and Senate Checks

The video discusses the power of appointment held by U.S. presidents, focusing on the significant influence of appointing Supreme Court justices. It explains the Senate's role in confirming these appointments and highlights the contentious 2016 nomination of Merrick Garland by President Obama after Justice Scalia's death. The Republican-controlled Senate, led by Mitch McConnell, chose not to hold hearings, citing the election year, which led to political debate. This situation exemplifies the checks and balances between the executive and legislative branches.

What is one of the most influential powers of the U.S. President?

• Vetoing legislation

• Appointing Supreme Court justices

• Declaring war

• Granting pardons

Who must confirm the President's appointments?

• The Senate

• The Vice President

• The House of Representatives

• The Supreme Court

In 2016, which justice's passing created a Supreme Court vacancy?

• Justice Thomas

• Justice Kennedy

• Justice Scalia

• Justice Ginsburg

Who did President Obama nominate to the Supreme Court in 2016?

• Elena Kagan

• Sonia Sotomayor

• Merrick Garland

• Neil Gorsuch

Why did the Senate, led by Mitch McConnell, delay the confirmation process in 2016?

• They were waiting for a new Senate majority

• The nominee withdrew

• It was a presidential election year

• They wanted to appoint a different candidate

Who was elected President in 2016, influencing the Supreme Court appointment?

• Barack Obama

• Hillary Clinton

• Donald Trump

• Joe Biden

What was the political outcome of the Senate's decision to delay the nomination?

• A Democratic president was elected

• The Supreme Court remained unchanged

• A Republican president appointed a new justice

• The Senate lost its majority

What is a key example of a congressional check on presidential power?

• Presidential veto

• Judicial review

• Senate confirmation of appointments

• Executive orders

How did Republicans view Mitch McConnell's actions regarding the 2016 nomination?

• As a betrayal of constitutional duties

• As a principled use of Senate power

• As a failure to act

• As a compromise with Democrats

What was a major concern for Republicans regarding the replacement of Justice Scalia?

• The timing of the nomination

• The cost of the confirmation process

• A shift in the Supreme Court's ideological balance

• The nominee's lack of experience