What does the term "senatorial courtesy" refer to?

The term "senatorial courtesy" refers to an unwritten rule that gives individual senators the power to block presidential appointments to federal positions, such as federal judgeship, within their own state. This practice is based on the principle that the president should consult with the senators from the relevant state before making appointments, thereby respecting the input and influence of those senators.

This informal tradition helps maintain a cooperative relationship between the executive branch and the Senate, allowing senators to protect the interests of their constituents. For example, if a president nominates someone for a judicial position in a state, the home state senators may express their approval or disapproval, and it is often expected that the president will take these opinions into consideration. This underscores the importance of collaborative governance and the role of the Senate in the appointment process.