Question: Where can I locate information about appointed positions within the federal government, specifically whether or not a nominee for a position is confirmed by the U.S. Senate?
Answer: The Plum Book is freely available online at http://www.gpoaccess.gov/plumbook/. The November 2008 book is the most current issue and the next printing will be in 2012. The legend provides interpretation for the various appointment codes. The appointments are separated out by agency or other government organization. Within each section, you will find details on the position title, geographic location, name of the incumbent, type of appointment, pay information, tenure and appointment expiration date if there is one. A "PAS" code under type of appointment indicates that the position is nominated by the President and confirmed by the U.S. Senate.
To research current nominees and appointments under the President Obama’s administration, the White House posted a database at http://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/nominations-and-appointments. The “find inside” search box is on the top towards the right. The table lists the person's name, position title, federal agency, and the nomination/confirmation dates. You can change the way the table sorts, download the data or even email it to someone.
