Presidential Appointments in the Next Administration
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Each Presidential administration appoints talented and dedicated individuals to a variety of roles, including Cabinet and sub-Cabinet positions.
Although the selection of individuals to serve in the federal government is an ongoing process that will continue year-round, the presidential election marks a special point when opportunities may become available and when individuals
may become particularly motivated to seek positions in government.
NAPABA is committed to supporting its members who are interested in seeking appointments in the next presidential administration and to ensuring that individuals from diverse personal and professional backgrounds are considered and
appointed to positions at all levels of government.
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NAPABA is collecting applications to recommend to the next presidential administration for:
- Article III Judicial Appointments and DC Courts
- Executive Branch Appointments: Senate Confirmed (PAS) and Non-Senate Confirmed Presidential Appointments
- Boards and Commissions.
Please note that there are some offices that are bipartisan and will require the applicant to be a registered Democrat, Republican, or Independent, (e.g. U.S. Court of International Trade, U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission,
U.S. Commission on Civil Rights, etc.).
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SUBMIT APPLICATION HERE
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between PAS and non-PAS?
“PAS” refers to Presidential Appointments with U.S. Senate confirmation. Under Article II, Section 2, of the U.S. Constitution, such positions require a nomination by the President and the “Advice and Consent” of the U.S. Senate. They are high-level senior positions (approximately 1,200) that include Cabinet secretaries, agency heads, deputy secretaries, undersecretaries, and assistant secretaries. U.S. Marshals and members of specific boards and commissions also fall under this category and must be confirmed by the Senate.
“Non-PAS” or “PA” are political appointees not requiring Senate confirmation. They are senior-level positions, including roles within the Executive Office of the President such as senior White House aides and advisors.
What are career appointments?
Senior Executive Service career appointments in the federal government are made through a competitive merit staffing process, requiring recruitment and evaluation.
What should I consider when pursuing a PAS and non-PAS role?
Presidential Appointments with Senate Confirmation (PAS) undergo rigorous vetting, public scrutiny, and political negotiation, ensuring accountability to both the President and Congress. These high-level positions, like Cabinet secretaries and agency heads, involve leadership over large federal agencies, but the lengthy confirmation process can delay appointments.
In contrast, Presidential Appointments without Senate Confirmation (PA) allow the President to quickly fill senior advisory roles within the Executive Office, offering flexibility and alignment with the administration’s agenda but with less oversight and job security. While PAS appointees have broader responsibilities and stability, PA roles enable swift executive decision-making without legislative influence.
Where would my position be located?
The majority of political appointments will be based in Washington DC, and appointees will have to relocate to the Washington DC area.
Depending on my position as a non-PA vs PA, what would be my salary?
For information about pay scale for specific positions, please visit the Plum Book Reporting.
Should I solicit support from outside community organizations for my appointment?
For certain senior-level roles, community support can be beneficial by providing endorsements, raising awareness, and building advocacy. Their collective backing, through letters and petitions, can highlight the candidate's achievements and strengthen their credibility, increasing visibility with decision-makers.
Does my member of Congress play a role in obtaining an appointment?
Members of Congress and Senators play a key role in securing a presidential appointment for their constituents by providing recommendations, endorsements, and letters of support. They can advocate for qualified individuals to the White House or relevant agencies, leveraging their political influence and relationships with executive branch officials. Their backing can be crucial in navigating the appointment process because they can bring attention and support from decision-makers in the administration.
What is a good resource to navigate presidential transitions and political appointments?
Partnership for Public Service: https://presidentialtransition.org
