Question

the senate will turn down such a presidential appointment if it is opposed by a senator of the presidents party from the state involved. the senates observance of this unwritten rule has a significant impact on the presidents exercise of the power of appointment; in effect, this rule means that some senators virtually dictate certain presidential appointments. this excerpt from the text refers to
a. the impeachment process.
b. congressional hearings.
c. senatorial courtesy.
d. the seniority rule.

Explanation:

Senatorial courtesy is an unwritten rule where the Senate may turn down a presidential appointment if opposed by a senator of the President's party from the relevant state, giving some senators influence over appointments. The excerpt describes this concept.

Answer:

C. senatorial courtesy