Republican senators are coalescing around a plan to allow nominees to be approved in groups, aiming to expedite the confirmation process for President Donald Trump’s nominees. The proposal, which involves confirming multiple nominees with a single vote instead of individual votes, is seen as a significant shift in Senate rules. The plan is expected to be enacted before a scheduled break that begins on Sept. 30, according to GOP leaders.
The change would not apply to Cabinet-level nominees or Supreme Court picks, though there are discussions about whether it should extend to federal district court nominees. Senate leaders, including Wyoming’s John Barrasso, have expressed support for the proposal, which could allow for changes in Senate rules with a simple majority vote. However, some Republicans are hesitant, with three senators potentially breaking ranks. Vice President JD Vance could break a tie in the event of a deadlock.
This marks another shift in the Senate’s confirmation process, following prior changes implemented during the first Trump administration. The GOP is also leaving the door open to allowing recess appointments, which would let the president bypass Senate involvement, at least temporarily. However, this idea is sparking some unease within the conference, with some Republicans arguing that a permanent rules change that would apply to future administrations is better.
While Democrats have criticized the move as reckless and dangerous, insisting that they will not be accomplices to what they describe as Trump’s sabotage of the Senate, the GOP remains in a position to enact the changes along party lines. The potential for bipartisan rule changes is still being explored, though there is a clear expectation that the Republicans will move forward with their own plan.