Using the buddy system, an agency can circumvent the usual OPM search process by:

a. asking the president to appoint a specific candidate.

b. blanketing in a job candidate.

c. duplicating positions.

d. issuing a merit dispensation.

e. issuing a name request.

Im not sure but I think it is D. Can someone help me please?

To determine the correct answer, we need to understand the concept of the buddy system and the OPM (Office of Personnel Management) search process.

The buddy system refers to the practice of hiring individuals based on personal connections and relationships rather than through a formal and rigorous selection process. It involves favoritism or nepotism, where someone is given preference due to their relationship with a decision-maker or insider.

On the other hand, the OPM search process is the standard procedure that federal agencies follow when hiring employees. It includes advertising job vacancies, conducting fair and open competitions, and adhering to merit-based principles.

Out of the given options, none explicitly mention the buddy system. However, option D, "issuing a merit dispensation," seems the closest. By issuing a merit dispensation, an agency may bypass some of the formalities in the hiring process, potentially allowing for favoritism or circumventing the full OPM search process.

To confirm the answer, let's look at the other options:

a. Asking the president to appoint a specific candidate: This option suggests direct intervention from the president to appoint a specific candidate, which is not a part of the OPM search process.

b. Blanketing in a job candidate: This term is unfamiliar and does not align with standard hiring practices or the buddy system.

c. Duplicating positions: This refers to creating identical positions, which is not directly related to the buddy system or bypassing the OPM search process.

e. Issuing a name request: This option is not commonly used or associated with the buddy system or the OPM search process.

Considering the context and available options, option D, "issuing a merit dispensation," appears to be the most plausible answer for a practice that could potentially circumvent the OPM search process by utilizing the buddy system. However, it is important to note that the buddy system and its specific practices may vary, and this answer is based on the information provided.