Anonymous Holds, Part II

Apparently, I'm not the only person annoyed about anonymous holds. Gabrielle Martin, president of the American Federation of Government Employees' National Council of Equal Employment Opportunity Commission Locals, writes:

Congress is made up of people of various races, sexes, cultures, political parties and philosophies. It is really a sad day when a member of Congress, which itself is a diverse body of thought, places a "secret" hold on a nominee. The public process allows issues and concerns to be questioned, addressed and ultimately there will be a vote on the nominee. On the other hand, a "secret" hold suggests the absence of a legitimate concern.

The EEOC is an important law enforcement agency that is hampered by the lack of permanent leadership. Saddled with over 90,00 cases backlogged and an unwillingness to change the process or add staff, EEOC's ability to address its mission remains impaired. Ultimately, it is the constituents of all members of Congress - both employers and complainants who remain at risk in the face of the "secret" hold and the absence of a confirmation vote.