This is said to be a very interesting, comprehensive book on the Federal Judicial confirmations. One may not agree with every conclusion the author comes up with, but it's informative and useful for those interested in the topic.
Very interesting post. I think the founders envisioned and legislated a full and open cooperation between the Executive and Legislative branches in choosing such justices.
Such things as a congressional "pre-approved" list submitted to the president would clearly give de facto all power to the Legislative branch since it would clearly limit the Executive to their choices.
I think that it's a good thing that nominees appear before the Judiciary Committee because in spite of all the grandstanding and partisan politics -- it educates and informs the public. We not only learn about the nominees but about our elected representatives who are sitting in judgment.
I think the notion that only a small coterie of elites should control the process smacks too much of star chamber statecraft.