Presidential Nomination

• The president of the United States nominates a potential Cabinet member and submits his name in writing to the Senate.
  
  

Nominee Referred to Committee

• The nominee's name is then referred to the committee that oversees the position. For example, the nominee for Secretary of Defense would be referred to the Armed Services Committee for review.
  
  

Committee Hearings and the Senate Calendar

• The committee may choose to hold a hearing on the nominee. The nominee's name is then placed on the Senate Executive Calendar for floor consideration.
  
  

White House Notification

• The Senate will vote to approve or reject the nomination. The White House is then notified of the outcome. If approved, the nominee officially becomes a Cabinet member.