Who has the power to appoint federal judges?

The power to appoint federal judges lies with the president. According to the U.S. Constitution, specifically Article II, Section 2, the president has the authority to nominate judges to the federal judiciary, including the Supreme Court. This process is a crucial aspect of the system of checks and balances within the federal government, ensuring that the executive branch has a significant role in shaping the judicial branch.

Once a president nominates a candidate for a judicial position, that nominee must then be confirmed by the Senate. This step highlights the collaborative nature of the appointment process; however, the initial power to appoint belongs solely to the president. This framework is designed to prevent any one branch of government from becoming too powerful and ensures that judicial appointments reflect the administration's judicial philosophy while still requiring Senate approval.