WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — In the weeks following Election Day, President-elect Donald Trump has made headlines with his rapid pace of appointments for his expected administration. However, this swiftness is not synonymous with a well-structured process.
Trump has publicly announced over two dozen appointments, including 16 key Cabinet roles. This selection process is occurring in unconventional settings, such as his Mar-a-Lago club and on his private jet, raising concerns over potential pitfalls similar to those faced during his previous term, as well as the emergence of new missteps.
The appointments reflect Trump’s commitment to being a transformative figure in governance, yet they also evoke memories of the chaotic administration style seen in his first four years. David Marchick, dean at the Kogod School of Business and co-author of “The Peaceful Transition of Power,” noted, “Last time they were slow and disorganized, this time they’re fast and disorganized.” He highlighted that Trump’s team is rolling out Cabinet appointments at a pace four times quicker than his predecessors while acknowledging that mistakes are being made due to the rush.
Despite various concerns regarding some of his nominees’ backgrounds, Trump has not shown signs of reconsidering his choices. Missouri Senator Eric Schmitt, a Trump ally, expressed support, saying, “The president deserves to be able to put people in place who will do what he campaigned on, which is to disrupt…”
However, Max Stier, president and CEO of the Partnership for Public Service, raised a crucial point regarding the transition. He emphasized that it’s essential to focus not just on change, but on selecting appropriate change agents for the administration.
Currently, Trump’s transition team has not completed necessary agreements with the White House or the Department of Justice, preventing thorough government background checks for potential appointees. This lack of cooperation with the Biden administration is evident as the transition unfolds largely from non-governmental settings.
Some staff members expressed astonishment upon hearing about sexual assault allegations against Pete Hegseth, a Fox News anchor picked to head the Pentagon. Despite Hegseth’s denial of the charges, reports of a settlement paid to an accuser suggest a need for comprehensive background checks, which are typically expected during such a process.
The manner in which announcements of these picks have been made reveals a disorganized approach. Various selections have been disclosed via email, social media postings, or through announcements by external supporters like Roger Stone.
The nomination of Matt Gaetz for Attorney General has drawn attention due to his controversial past, with ethical considerations under review. The House Ethics Committee plans to meet to discuss the report on allegations against him related to inappropriate conduct.
Additionally, the backgrounds of nominees like Tulsi Gabbard and Lee Zeldin have sparked debate, as both have controversial histories that may raise questions regarding their suitability for their respective positions within the administration.
These choices hint at Trump’s inclination to favor those who boldly supported him and resonate strongly with his base, underscoring a commitment to disrupt traditional political norms. A prime example includes the selection of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for the Department of Health and Human Services, who shares some of Trump’s skepticism about vaccines.
As Republicans prepare to hold a 53-47 majority in the Senate, confirmation of Trump’s nominees is uncertain. Trump has hinted at utilizing recess appointments to expedite the process, bypassing the typical confirmation pathways.
Nevertheless, Trump’s team has not yet established a robust framework to support his nominees through public relations or guidance during the Senate confirmation stages. Ohio Senator JD Vance is taking a significant role in advocating for these picks, with Trump himself also getting involved.
Though Donald Trump Jr. indicated that contingency plans exist, he affirmed their commitment to pursuing the strongest candidates available.
The selection process for key roles, such as Treasury Secretary, remains in deliberation, with public commentary from figures like Elon Musk impacting the decision-making.
Stier cautioned that while speed can be an asset, it can lead to greater problems if not executed properly. “It’s being done quickly, but it’s being done without the kind of due diligence that ordinarily takes place and ensures that mistakes are not made,” he concluded.