Who formally nominates Supreme Court Justices?

The President of the United States is responsible for formally nominating Supreme Court Justices. This power is rooted in Article II, Section 2 of the Constitution, which grants the President the authority to appoint judges with the advice and consent of the Senate. This process reflects the system of checks and balances integral to the Constitution, as it ensures that the executive branch collaborates with the legislative branch in the judicial appointment process. The Senate then conducts hearings and votes on whether to confirm the nominee, further emphasizing the collaborative nature of this authority.

The roles of other entities, such as the Chief Justice, members of Congress, or state governors, do not include the nomination process itself. While Congress plays a critical role in the confirmation stage, it does not nominate justices. State governors and the Chief Justice do not have any formal role in the nomination process at the federal level, which is why they are not the correct answers. The President’s nomination power is a key aspect of shaping the judicial branch and influences the direction of the Supreme Court for generations.