Which body confirms federal judges?

The body responsible for confirming federal judges is the Senate. This process is outlined in the U.S. Constitution, specifically in Article II, Section 2, which states that the President nominates judges, and the Senate must provide its advice and consent for those nominations to be finalized. This system is designed to serve as a check on the President's power by requiring the involvement of another legislative branch, thus ensuring that the judicial appointments reflect a broader consensus.

The confirmation process typically involves hearings held by the Senate Judiciary Committee, followed by a vote in the full Senate. A simple majority is required to confirm a nominee, ensuring that federal judges are appointed only when there is sufficient support among the elected representatives in the Senate. This significant role of the Senate underscores the importance of checks and balances in the U.S. government.

Other options, such as the House of Representatives, the Supreme Court, and the Judicial Council, do not have the authority or mechanisms to confirm federal judges. The House does not partake in judicial confirmations, the Supreme Court is an appellate body and does not engage in the nomination process, and the Judicial Council’s role is more administrative than confirming judges.