Legal Definitions - senatorial courtesy

Senatorial courtesy is a tradition in the United States government where the President should be careful when appointing someone to a high-level federal position, such as a judgeship, to ensure that the nominee is agreeable to the senators from the nominee's home state. This is to prevent the senators from blocking the confirmation of the nominee.

For example, if the President wants to appoint a judge from California, they should consult with the senators from California to ensure that the nominee is acceptable to them. If the senators approve of the nominee, then it is likely that the Senate as a whole will confirm the nomination.

Senatorial courtesy is a way for senators to work together and ensure that their home state's interests are represented in the federal government. It is a way for senators to help each other get the appointments they want in their state in exchange for helping other senators get the appointments they want in their state.

Overall, senatorial courtesy is a way for senators to show civility and respect towards each other, even if they have different political views or come from different states.