Majority leader

The majority leader is the chief floor strategist for the party that holds the majority in the House or Senate. The post is not mentioned in the Constitution; it emerged in the early twentieth century as party organization became stronger.

In the Senate, the majority leader is the most powerful figure. By long-standing custom, the presiding officer gives him or her the first recognition, which lets the leader control the Senate's schedule, decide which bills come up and file motions such as cloture. The leader negotiates unanimous consent agreements with the minority leader to organize debate and amendments and works with the whip to count votes. In the House, the majority leader ranks below the Speaker of the House and handles the legislative schedule for the majority.

Senate leaders have different styles; some prefer open amendment processes and others tightly control the floor. Members of the party have at times criticized leaders for not blocking bills or nominations they oppose. The majority leader also plays a major role in confirming judges and in decisions about changing the rules, such as using the nuclear-option. A senate-hold by an individual senator can complicate the leader's plans.