Senate hearings are important for gathering information, examining government performance, investigating wrongdoing, and approving executive appointments. There are four types of hearings: legislative, watch, investigative, and confirmation. The Senate also ratifies treaties as part of its “advice and consent” role. Senate hearings are an important part of the work of the United States Senate. Both […]
The President appoints over 2000 high-ranking government positions, which the Senate confirms or denies through Senate confirmation hearings. Supreme Court justices and Cabinet secretaries undergo the closest scrutiny. The process involves nomination, committee review, executive session, and a simple majority vote. The Senate notifies the President of the outcome, and non-political appointments can also be […]
The Army-McCarthy hearings in 1954 marked the end of Senator Joseph McCarthy’s career. McCarthy accused US government employees of being communists during the Cold War, but when he turned his attention to the military, Army officials launched their own investigation. The televised hearings turned public sentiment against McCarthy, and he was eventually censured by his […]
Administrative hearings are legal proceedings outside of a formal court system, usually involving disputes under the authority of a government agency. Parties present their side of the facts, evidence, and witnesses to an administrative law judge who acts as judge and jury. The final decision is made by the agency. These hearings regulate businesses or […]
