APPOINTEE ABYSS: As the 115th Congress approaches its end, key executive-branch positions remain vacant or without permanent leadership at agencies that make employment and immigration policy. With members of Congress set to go home Dec. 14 (barring unforeseen developments), unconfirmed nominees risk having to start the nomination process all over again. Here’s a rundown of those who are in confirmation limbo (with help from the non-profit Partnership for Public Service):