Authorizing the en bloc consideration in Executive Session of certain nominations on the Executive Calendar.
Summary
Senate Resolution 520 proposes authorizing the en bloc consideration of numerous nominations on the Executive Calendar. This resolution streamlines the confirmation process for multiple executive and judicial appointments. The resolution was submitted by Mr. Thune on December 1, 2025, and was ordered to lie over under the rule.
Expected Effects
If passed, this resolution would allow the Senate to consider and potentially confirm a large group of nominees simultaneously. This could expedite the filling of key positions across various government departments and agencies. The impact would largely depend on the qualifications and suitability of the individual nominees.
Potential Benefits
- Expedited confirmation process for numerous positions.
- Potential for quicker staffing of critical government roles.
- Increased efficiency in the Senate's consideration of nominations.
- Reduced delays in filling vacancies across various departments.
- Opportunity to address multiple personnel needs at once.
Potential Disadvantages
- Reduced individual scrutiny of each nominee.
- Potential for less thorough vetting of qualifications.
- Risk of confirming less qualified individuals due to expedited process.
- Limited opportunity for public input or debate on each nomination.
- Possible perception of rushing through important appointments.
Constitutional Alignment
The resolution itself is procedurally aligned with the Senate's authority to manage its internal processes under Article I, Section 5, which grants each house the power to determine the rules of its proceedings. The appointments themselves must still adhere to the Appointments Clause (Article II, Section 2, Clause 2), requiring the advice and consent of the Senate. The en bloc consideration does not inherently violate these constitutional principles, but the quality of Senate's advice and consent may be impacted.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).