Key takeaways

• Both North Carolina senators oppose Mark Walker’s nomination.
• The Senate “blue slip” rule blocks his ambassador bid.
• President Trump criticizes the blue slip process as a “scam.”
• Walker says delays harm people facing faith-based persecution.

President Donald Trump faced another setback when North Carolina’s two Republican senators said no to Mark Walker’s nomination. Without their support, the Senate “blue slip” rule stops Walker from becoming Ambassador for International Religious Freedom.

Walker is a former congressman and pastor. He hopes to speak for people jailed or harmed because of their faith. However, both Senator Ted Budd and Senator Thom Tillis want a different choice. They followed the long-standing Senate tradition that gives home-state senators power over certain appointees.

How the Blue Slip Rule Works

First, a nominee must win approval from both senators where they live. This approval comes in the form of a piece of blue paper – hence the name “blue slip.” Next, the Senate Judiciary Committee chair decides whether to move the nomination forward. If either senator returns a negative or no slip, the nomination stalls.

The rule started in the early 20th century. It aimed to give states a say in federal appointments tied closely to their interests. Over time, it became a powerful tool for senators to block nominees. Recently, it has focused mainly on judicial and key diplomatic roles.

Senators can use the blue slip to demand details about candidates. They can also push for nominees who better match their policy goals. Yet this tradition faces criticism. Some say it gives too much power to one senator. Others argue it slows vital nominations.

Why Both Senators Oppose Mark Walker

Senator Ted Budd and Senator Thom Tillis represent North Carolina. They have different reasons but share a clear position: they do not back Walker. Budd has publicly supported another Republican for the post. Tillis said the position has been open for almost a year, and it is time to move on.

Tillis told reporters, “We should look for another nominee, with all due respect to Mark Walker.” He stressed urgency over the delay. Meanwhile, Walker used social media to press his case. He argued the delay keeps him from helping people in danger.

Walker wrote, “President Trump prioritized this post because he prioritizes religious freedom. My being delayed from fighting for people imprisoned, tortured and killed simply for their faith is frustrating.” Despite his plea, the two senators did not change their stance.

Trump’s Frustration with the Blue Slip

President Trump has grown increasingly angry about the blue slip. He claims it blocks many qualified judges and U.S. attorneys. He says a single opposing senator can kill an entire slate of nominees.

On his platform, Trump called blue slips a “scam.” He complained that the process lets a minor party hold up major appointments. He even blamed Senate Republicans for allowing the rule to continue. According to Trump, only a “far left Democrat” could win approval in some cases.

However, defenders of the blue slip say it protects state interests. They argue it keeps presidents from overruling senators on local matters. They also say it promotes careful review of nominees.

What Happens Next

With both senators opposing Walker, his nomination will almost certainly die in committee. The White House must now find a new candidate. Trump’s team may look for someone both Budd and Tillis can accept.

Meanwhile, Walker remains vocal online. He hopes public pressure will change minds. Yet the Senate calendar fills quickly. Even if the White House resubmits him, the process could drag on for months.

If Republicans lose hope of a quick nominee, they may abandon the role altogether. That would leave the post vacant and slow U.S. efforts to defend religious freedom abroad.

At the same time, Democrats could use this fight to push their own reforms. They might seek to weaken or end the blue slip rule. Such moves could reshape future nominations, impacting all presidents.

The blue slip is more than a piece of paper. It is a gatekeeper for key roles. As this fight shows, it remains a powerful tool in Senate politics.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a blue slip?

A blue slip is part of an old Senate rule. It lets home-state senators approve or block certain nominees. Without both slips, nominees cannot move forward in committee.

Why did North Carolina’s senators oppose Mark Walker?

Both Senator Budd and Senator Tillis want a different nominee. They believe the post has been vacant too long and prefer another candidate.

How might this affect future nominations?

This fight may prompt calls to change the blue slip rule. Some lawmakers want to reduce its power to speed up confirmations.

Can the White House override a blue slip?

No. Under Senate tradition, a negative or missing slip from a home-state senator halts the process. The White House must pick someone both senators accept.