US Senate Confirms 48 Trump Nominees in Single Vote
The US Senate approved 48 nominees to government positions on Thursday, September 18, 2025, in a single vote. The confirmations followed a recent rule change allowing the chamber to approve lower-level appointments in batches rather than individually.
According to Senate Majority Leader John Thune, the move was intended to streamline the confirmation process and reduce delays. "We're pleased that we can move forward with these nominations," Thune said at a news conference on September 16, 2025. "It's a common-sense approach that will allow us to focus on more pressing issues."
Among those confirmed were Kimberly Guilfoyle, a former FOX News host and ex-fiancee of Donald Trump Jr., as US Ambassador to Greece. Callista Gingrich, the wife of conservative political pundit Newt Gingrich, was also appointed ambassador to Switzerland and Liechtenstein.
The confirmations have raised concerns among some Democrats, who argue that the process has become too rushed. "We're seeing a pattern here where the Senate is approving nominees without adequate scrutiny," said Senator Chuck Schumer, the minority leader. "This is not how we should be conducting business in the Senate."
Supporters of the rule change argue that it will help to reduce partisan gridlock and allow for more efficient confirmation of qualified candidates. "We're trying to make the process more transparent and accountable," Thune said.
The confirmations are part of a broader effort by President Donald Trump's administration to fill key government positions. The president has nominated over 1,000 individuals to serve in various roles across the federal government.
As the Senate continues to consider additional nominations, some lawmakers are calling for greater transparency and oversight. "We need to make sure that we're not rushing through nominees without proper scrutiny," said Senator Elizabeth Warren. "This is a critical moment for our democracy."
The confirmations of 48 Trump nominees in a single vote mark a significant shift in the Senate's approach to confirming government appointments. As the process continues, lawmakers will be closely watching how this new approach affects the balance of power and the functioning of the federal government.
Background: The US Senate has been struggling with a backlog of nominations since the start of President Trump's term. A recent rule change allowed for batch confirmations, which some argue will streamline the process while others claim it will lead to rushed decisions.
Additional perspectives:
Senator Mitch McConnell, the majority leader, praised the move as "a significant step forward" in the confirmation process.
Senator Bernie Sanders criticized the approach as "a power grab by the Republican leadership."
The White House hailed the confirmations as a "major victory" for President Trump's agenda.
*Reporting by Aljazeera.*
