D) Campaign contributions.
The question pertains to selecting heads of departments in government positions. Relying on campaign contributions as a factor would essentially mean individuals were buying their way into government positions.
Obviously abilities and professional experience matter the most. Ethnicity ought not be a consideration in a prejudicial manner. But if government agencies are going to represent well the various constituencies of the American public, those making government appointments will take care to consider qualified minority candidates to serve as department heads.