Republicans in the U.S. Senate voted Thursday to change long-standing rules, allowing faster confirmation of President Donald Trump’s executive branch nominees. The move passed 53-45, reducing Democrats’ ability to delay hundreds of appointments to key federal positions.
For months, Republicans criticized Democrats for slowing confirmations. Senate Majority Whip John Thune argued that excessive delays forced the chamber to spend “two-thirds of our time on nominees.” Under the new rule, large groups of nominees can now be confirmed together, instead of one at a time.
Democrats condemned the change, warning it weakens oversight of the White House. Senator Adam Schiff said the decision “means fewer checks and balances on an executive already running roughshod over the Constitution.” Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer called it a “conveyor belt of unqualified nominees.”
The rule change does not apply to federal judges or Cabinet-level officials but will impact hundreds of lower-level positions across executive agencies. It marks the third time in 12 years that Senate leaders have reduced minority party power. In 2013, Democrats first used the “nuclear option” to overcome Republican obstruction. Four years later, Republicans applied it to Supreme Court nominees.
Republicans currently control the Senate 53-47, giving Trump a strong advantage in filling vacancies. As early as next week, the first wave of nominees could advance under the new process. Trump’s pick for the Federal Reserve Board, Stephen Miran, however, is still scheduled for a final vote under the old rules.
Critics argue this change further expands presidential power, noting Trump has already bypassed Congress on spending and tariffs. Supporters say the Senate must operate more efficiently. The debate underscores the growing erosion of the Senate’s role as a moderating force in U.S. politics.