Which of the following is NOT a Suitability Factor under 5 CFR 731.202?

• A. Misconduct or Negligence in Employment
• B. Alcohol Abuse
• C. Political Party Affiliation
• D. Statutory or Regulatory Bar to Employment

Answer: (C)

Suitability determinations focus on an applicant’s or employee’s fitness for federal service by examining behavior, reliability, and legal eligibility. Under 5 CFR 731.202, factors considered include misconduct or negligence in employment, alcohol abuse, and any statutory or regulatory bar to employment. These elements relate directly to trustworthiness and the ability to perform duties safely and effectively.

Political party affiliation, on the other hand, is not used as a suitability factor. The federal hiring system aims to be merit-based and nonpartisan, avoiding decisions grounded in political alignment. While certain activities and affiliations may be regulated in other contexts, party affiliation itself does not determine suitability for most federal positions.

Therefore, political party affiliation is not a Suitability Factor under 5 CFR 731.202, whereas the other options describe concerns that can affect suitability.