What is required for a President's Supreme Court nominee to be confirmed?

The confirmation of a President's Supreme Court nominee requires a majority vote in the Senate. This process is outlined in the Constitution and has been established as part of the checks and balances of the U.S. government. The Senate has the authority to provide advice and consent on presidential appointments, including Supreme Court justices.

When the President nominates someone for the Supreme Court, the Senate Judiciary Committee typically conducts hearings to evaluate the nominee's qualifications, judicial philosophy, and suitability for the role. Following these hearings, the full Senate then votes. A simple majority of the Senators present is necessary for confirmation, meaning that if there are 100 Senators, at least 51 must vote in favor of the nominee for them to be confirmed.

This majority requirement underscores the significant role the Senate plays in shaping the judiciary, ensuring that no single branch of government can unilaterally appoint justices without legislative approval. The other options refer to procedures that are not applicable in this context: a majority vote in the House of Representatives is not involved in judicial confirmations, nor does the Supreme Court itself play a role in approving its new members. Additionally, a two-thirds vote in the Senate is typically reserved for amendments or certain specific actions, not for confirming Supreme Court nominees.