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Federal court judges are usually ______ for life.

  1. Elected

  2. Appointed

  3. Nominated

  4. Hired

The correct answer is: Appointed

Judges in the federal court system are not elected, as this could create conflicts of interest and concern over public opinion influencing decisions. They are also not hired, as this implies a more employment-based relationship rather than a role of great responsibility and independence. While C may seem like a potential answer, nomination is only the first step in the process of becoming a federal judge; they must then be appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate. Therefore, appointment is the most accurate and appropriate term to describe the process of becoming a federal court judge and the resulting length of their term. By being appointed, judges are able to remain impartial and free from pressures of reelection or termination, allowing them to make decisions based solely on the law and the Constitution.