The Speaker of the House of Representatives and
the President pro tempore of the Senate jointly appoint the CBO director, after
considering recommendations from the two budget committees. Directors are
appointed for four-year terms, and they may be reappointed to the position; in addition, a director serving at the expiration of a term may continue to serve until his or her successor is appointed. The
Congressional Budget and Impoundment Control Act of 1974 specifies that CBO’s
director is to be chosen without regard to political affiliation.
The rest of CBO's staff, including the Deputy Director, are appointed by the Director. CBO Directors have established a firm tradition
of retaining staff from previous directors. Directors appoint all CBO employees
solely on the basis of professional competence, without regard to political
affiliation.