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President-elect Donald Trump on Sunday urged that the next Senate Republican leaders to back the use of “recess appointments,” which would grant him the authority to make temporary appointments without requiring Senate vote.
“Any Republican Senator seeking the coveted LEADERSHIP position in the United States Senate must agree to Recess Appointments (in the Senate!), without which we will not be able to get people confirmed in a timely manner. Sometimes the votes can take two years, or more. This is what they did four years ago, and we cannot let it happen again. We need positions filled IMMEDIATELY!” Trump posted on X.
“Additionally, no Judges should be approved during this period of time because the Democrats are looking to ram through their Judges as the Republicans fight over Leadership. THIS IS NOT ACCEPTABLE. THANK YOU!” he added.
The secret ballot contest features Republican Senators John Thune (South Dakota), John Cornyn (Texas) and Rick Scott (Florida), who are competing to succeed long-serving GOP leader Mitch McConnell, who is departing after nearly 20 years.
The three candidates have sought Trump’s backing, each attempting to demonstrate their allegiance to the president-elect whilst campaigning for the majority leader position.
Since a 2014 Supreme Court decision restricted presidential authority for recess appointments, the Senate has prevented such actions. The chamber maintains brief “pro-forma” sessions during extended breaks exceeding 10 days to prevent unconfirmed appointments during Senate absences.
With Trump’s approval crucial to the race, each of the three candidates promptly indicated openness to revisiting the practice. Scott responded to Trump, stating, “I 100% agree. I’ll do whatever it takes to expedite your nominations.”
Thune issued a statement emphasising the need for swift action regarding nominees, indicating that “all options are on the table to make that happen, including recess appointments.”
Cornyn said: “It is unacceptable for Senate Ds to blockade President @realDonaldTrump ‘s cabinet appointments. If they do, we will stay in session, including weekends, until they relent.” He referenced the constitutional provision for recess appointments, Associated Press reported.
This social media interaction served as an initial assessment for the candidates following Trump’s decisive re-election the previous week.
Trump’s initial term was marked by tensions with Congress, particularly regarding the Senate’s constitutional role in confirming nominations. Following his substantial electoral victory, he has begun indicating clear expectations for Senate Republicans and their future leader regarding his Cabinet choices.
Trump additionally posted about preventing judicial approvals before the Republican takeover, though this presents challenges as Democrats maintain control until January 3.
The leadership contest remains uncertain with Thune and Cornyn, both former McConnell deputies, considered leading candidates despite previous Trump criticisms. Scott, though initially considered unlikely, has launched an energetic campaign seeking Trump’s support.
Scott has received endorsements from Trump-aligned senators Lee and Rubio, alongside Elon Musk. During his Fox News appearance, Scott said, “We have to be the change. That’s what Donald Trump got elected to do, to be the change.”
The candidates have committed to greater transparency than McConnell offered, promising increased senatorial influence. They’ve distanced themselves from McConnell’s relationship with Trump, noting McConnell’s private criticism of the former president.
Regarding Cabinet appointments, Trump’s supporters continue their advocacy. Vivek Ramaswamy mentioned on ABC’s “This Week” about “a couple of great options on the table.”
Former ambassador Hagerty, who supports Scott, expressed on CBS’s “Face the Nation” his pride in representing Trump’s administration, stating, “I’ll do that in whatever role necessary.”
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