Which description correctly defines unanimous consent?

• A. A formal vote for every item.
• B. A decision approved by the chair alone.
• C. A motion to postpone debate.
• D. Business approved without a formal vote if no member objects.

Answer: (D)

Unanimous consent is a way to move through routine business quickly by approving it without a formal vote, as long as no one objects. In practice, the chair asks if there are any objections; if no one speaks up, the item is treated as approved by the consent of the assembly. The power rests on the members’ lack of objections rather than on a vote by the chair alone. If an objection is raised, the item no longer qualifies for unanimous consent and must be handled under normal rules, which may involve debate and a formal vote. This distinguishes it from requiring a vote for every item, and from postponing debate, since the goal is to approve without a vote when everyone is in agreement.