Obama calls on Senate to stop blocking nominees

(AP) — President Barack Obama is calling on lawmakers to stop blocking the confirmation of government appointees in the Senate by raising objections not related to their qualifications.

In a surprise appearance in the White House briefing room Tuesday, Obama said he will consider making recess appointments if the Senate doesn't act on the confirmation hearings.

Republican Sen. Richard Shelby of Alabama had placed a hold on most of Obama's nominees, delaying the Senate from acting on them. Shelby's office now says he will stop blocking the confirmations of most of the 70 nominees.