Who appoints the justices of the Supreme Court?

The justices of the Supreme Court are appointed by the President of the United States. This process is outlined in Article II, Section 2 of the U.S. Constitution, which grants the President the authority to nominate judges to the Supreme Court, subject to the advice and consent of the Senate. This means that after the President makes a nomination, the Senate must confirm the nominee through a majority vote. This system reflects the principle of checks and balances, ensuring that no single branch of government has unilateral power over judicial appointments.

The roles of Congress, the Vice President, and the Secretary of State do not include the power to appoint justices to the Supreme Court. Congress, while it plays a vital role in the legislative process and confirming appointments, does not have the authority to make nominations. The Vice President's role primarily involves presiding over the Senate and casting tie-breaking votes, while the Secretary of State is responsible for foreign affairs and does not have a role in judicial appointments. Thus, the process is distinctly centered on the President's responsibility to nominate justices.