Final answer:
U.S. attorneys in the executive branch represent the government in legal matters and are appointed by the President with Senate confirmation.
The President nominates federal judges for life terms, influencing the judiciary beyond their tenure. Interest groups may lobby for appointments in the executive branch that require Senate confirmation.
Step-by-step explanation:
U.S. attorneys are part of the executive branch of the government, which is charged with implementing and enforcing the laws written by Congress. Attorneys play a significant role in the executive branch, as they may represent the United States in legal matters, such as filing cases on behalf of the country or defending it against lawsuits.
The President holds the power to appoint and dismiss these attorneys, with Senate confirmation, providing the President with significant influence over the judiciary through these appointments. This role is critical as it helps ensure that the laws and policies of the executive branch are followed and legally sound.
Presidents also have the power to nominate federal judges, including those to the U.S. Courts of Appeals and the U.S. Supreme Court, again with the advice and consent of Congress. These judicial appointments are for life, allowing presidents to exert a lasting influence on the judiciary.
The president may select nominees from a list provided by the American Bar Association and works with the Senate Judiciary Committee and the full Senate to confirm these nominations. Once confirmed, appointees take an oath to uphold the Constitution and laws of the United States.
Furthermore, interest groups may lobby the executive branch on executive, judicial, and other appointments that require Senate confirmation, potentially leading to interest group members being appointed to positions where they can influence regulation.
The President can also influence the judiciary through the solicitor general and the submission of amicus briefs in court cases.