Key takeaways:
– Trump’s administration struggles to meet its hiring target for the second term.
– The president-elect looks to surround himself with MAGA loyalists.
– Despite the initial goal of appointing 2,000 officials, only half of the number have reportedly been hired.
– Trump prefers political appointees who align with his America First agenda.
– Representative Mike Waltz underscores the loyalty principle in his role as National Security Advisor.
Trump’s Hiring Woes
Despite his successful re-election, President Donald Trump is facing a big challenge – staffing his administration. He’s found it difficult to meet the hiring goal for his second term. Trump had set out to bring on board as many as 2,000 political appointees on day one of his new administration. Unfortunately, he is falling short of this target.
Previously Trump has seen a clash with the traditional conservatives in his team such as former Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and ex-White House Chief of Staff John F Kelly. However, in this term, the President is making a clear turn towards MAGA loyalists, both in top level roles and further down the ladder. This shift is evident in his recruitment efforts.
Looking at MAGA Loyalists
Alongside his new strategy, Trump brings a precautionary sentiment, warning against employing staff who may derail his political agenda. He’s particularly discerning when it comes to his cabinet and significant management roles.
Yet, when considering the staffing for middle and lower-level positions, Trump is happy to delegate the decision-making. He is leaving the decisions about who to hire to the future leaders of departments and agencies.
Trump’s Picking Strategy
There’s a running theme in the hiring process of Trump’s second administration, which is the emphasis on loyalty. This is not just relegated to the top ranks but is required throughout the structure. A recent post by Representative Mike Waltz, Trump’s pick for National Security Advisor, perfectly exemplifies this sentiment. Waltz emphasizes that everyone working under President Trump should be fully aligned with his America First agenda.
A Snapshot of the Past
It’s useful to compare the current situation to what was experienced at the beginning of Trump’s first term in 2017. At that time, approximately 1,200 political appointees were in place when Trump assumed presidency. On the other hand, President Biden’s transition chair Ted Kaufman reveals that there were 1136 political appointees on Inauguration Day in 2021.
Wrap Up
Staffing an administration is no small task, and Trump’s second term has certainly proved a challenge so far. Despite pursuing a new strategy and seeking MAGA loyalists, the president is currently struggling to fulfil his ambitious hiring goals. However, Trump remains adamant that anyone who becomes a part of his administration in this term should be a staunch supporter of his America First philosophy. Only time will tell whether this approach pays dividends and gives President Trump the united administration he desires.