Why does the Senate have to 'confirm' a presidential nominee?

Historically, the Senate has confirmed most presidential nominations, but “in rare instances” a vote to confirm has failed. .... read more

The senate doesn't have to vote 'yes' on anybody. They don't even have to take up issues or subjects they don't want to (tho they are subject to criticism when they don't). But it is their job to work with the President on nominations. read more

If the Senate, divided along party lines, splits 50-50 on any nomination, the vice president-to-be, Dick Cheney, can cast the tie-breaker. The majority of nominations, however, don't come up for a roll call vote but are approved by unanimous consent--agreement that does not require a recording of individual votes. read more