Learn About President Trump's Pick for the Supreme Court of the United States and the Steps Required for his Approval by the Senate

 

President Trump nominated a new member to the Supreme Court of the United States last night. He nominated Judge Neil Gorsuch.  Before Judge Gorsuch is appointed to the Supreme Court, his nomination must be confirmed by the Senate.  There are several steps to this process.

  1. Referral to the Senate Judiciary Committee.  President Trump's nomination of Judge Gorsuch will be referred to the Senate Judiciary Committee.  The Judiciary Committee is a 20 member committee currently comprised of 11 Republicans and 9 Democrats.  Members of the Senate Judiciary committee will research Judge Gorsuch's background.  Ordinarily, during this time, the nominee will go around and better acquaint himself with the members of Senate.
  2. Confirmation hearing and Committee Vote.  The Senate Judiciary Committee holds a hearing to ask the nominee questions.  The committee will also question outside witnesses.  The Senate Judiciary Committee generates a report and recommendation, based upon its research and this hearing, to be presented to the full Senate. 
  3. Full Senate vote.  This is the final vote of approval.  A simple majority (51/49) vote is necessary to confirm the nominee.  The Democrats might attempt to block a vote by filibuster.  Prior to former Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D - Nevada) setting a "nuclear option" precedent, a filibuster would have require the Republicans to gather 60 votes to break the filibuster.  It is unclear whether the Republicans will follow former Senate Majority Leader Reid's "nuclear option". 

It's important to learn about people in positions of power.  For a good place to start learning about Judge Neil Gorsuch follow his link: 

http://www.abajournal.com/news/article/trump_nominates_judge_to_supreme_court