5 Comments

It was my understanding that the recess appointments scheme would take place before and in lieu of formal confirmation hearings held by the appropriate Senate committees. That the executive would marginalize the parliament in that fashion is a first step in the fascist playbook. The crackpots whom Trump has nominated for Defense, DOJ, and the DNI are of serious concern as David has outlined (what about Bobby, Jr?!), but of even greater concern is that these nutjobs could take office by presidential fiat rather than the constitutionally mandated vetting and confirmation process. Thom Tillis seems to understand this and has said that there will/should be a confirmation hearing for Matt Gaetz. Good luck with your Republican primary in 2026, Thom, when you have to run against a full-on MAGA candidate identified by Trump. But I do sincerely appreciate your occasional independence as our senator. If only you had voted to convict in the Second Impeachment, we would not be in this pickle. .

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I am concerned about the crackpot positions of RFK and how he could potentially monkey around with drug approvals and a wide variety of health issues. But in the domestic arena, the president lacks the powers he has in foreign affairs. These domestic issues are wrapped in law, so when a cabinet secretary tries to act outside the law at Trump's bidding, the courts will still be there to prevent this. But the president has wide discretion in foreign affairs and security - so his advisors are so much more important and can exercise genuine authority that cannot be constrained from the outside by law or the judiciary. That is why I highlighted these three nominees.

As for the recess appointments, I would not put it beyond Trump at all to try to recess appoint someone after being rejected for confirmation by the Senate. The Republican Senate would have to stay out of recess intentionally to block this -- that is not something I think it will do. As many things these days, stay tuned ....

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All too clear-eyed analysis. We need to focus on what is happening before our eyes, not on past or future elections. Thanks,

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Thanks Carol. Agree with your advice.

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Whittaker at NATO is most concerning.

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