Trump Eyes Recess Appointments to Fast-Track Cabinet Picks

President-elect Donald Trump is pressing for the use of recess appointments to swiftly fill his Cabinet, bypassing the traditional Senate confirmation process. Despite Republicans holding a majority in the Senate, Trump’s demand underscores his frustration with potential delays and internal resistance to some of his more controversial nominees.

Trump’s Call for Action

Taking to X over the weekend, Trump criticized the longstanding practice of pro forma Senate sessions brief meetings that prevent the chamber from officially entering a recess. He called on Republican leaders to abandon this tactic and embrace recess appointments, a constitutional method of temporarily installing officials without Senate confirmation.

“Any Republican Senator seeking the coveted LEADERSHIP position in the United States Senate must agree to Recess Appointments,” Trump posted. “Sometimes the votes can take two years, or more. We need positions filled IMMEDIATELY!”

Trump also urged Republicans to block judicial approvals during this period, accusing Democrats of attempting to force through their nominees.

Senate Leadership Responds

Incoming Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) signaled openness to the idea but stopped short of fully endorsing it.

“We must act quickly and decisively to get the president’s Cabinet and other nominees in place,” Thune said, adding that recess appointments should only be considered when all other options are exhausted.

The Constitutional Backdrop

The U.S. Constitution grants the president the authority to make temporary appointments during Senate recesses. However, a 2014 Supreme Court ruling curtailed this power, allowing the Senate to use pro forma sessions to block such moves.

Trump could employ a rarely used provision in Article 2, Section 3 of the Constitution to adjourn Congress if the House and Senate cannot agree on a recess schedule. Such a maneuver would give Trump a 10-day window to make recess appointments, though it would likely face legal challenges and logistical hurdles, including unpaid appointees under federal law.

Trump’s Cabinet Picks

Trump has wasted no time announcing nominees for key positions, including:

• Secretary of State: Sen. Marco Rubio (R-FL)

• Secretary of Homeland Security: South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem

• Secretary of Defense: Pete Hegseth, a Fox News veteran and Army National Guard officer

One particularly divisive pick is former Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-FL) for attorney general. Gaetz’s nomination has sparked pushback from Democrats and moderate Republicans alike.

“I don’t think he’s a serious candidate,” Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) remarked. Sen. Susan Collins (R-ME) expressed similar concerns, calling the announcement “shocking” and emphasizing the importance of Senate hearings to vet such appointments.

The Stakes of Delay

For Trump, recess appointments are not just about convenience; they’re about ensuring his administration can hit the ground running. Key positions left vacant for months or even years could hinder his ability to execute policy and fulfill campaign promises.

While controversial, Trump’s push for recess appointments highlights his determination to bypass Washington gridlock and deliver on his mandate.

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