US President-elect Donald Trump has urged Republican senators to back a plan allowing him to bypass Senate confirmation votes for key appointees, aiming to limit Democrats’ influence over his incoming administration.
Trump’s comments come as the GOP prepares to elect its Senate leader, a role that will hold substantial sway after Republicans regained a slim Senate majority in the recent elections.
The US Constitution mandates Senate approval for presidential nominations, including cabinet positions and judicial appointments. However, a clause allows presidents to make “recess appointments” if the Senate is not in session for an extended period—a measure the Senate often circumvents with brief sessions.
Trump, however, has demanded this route to quickly secure his appointments, tweeting, “Any Republican Senator seeking the coveted LEADERSHIP position in the United States Senate must agree to Recess Appointments.”
In response, GOP leadership candidates expressed varying degrees of support. Florida Senator Rick Scott voiced his full endorsement, vowing swift action, while Senator John Thune of South Dakota called for “all options” to expedite confirmations. Texas Senator John Cornyn indicated a willingness to keep the Senate in constant session if Democrats attempt a blockade.
Trump also requested a pause on judicial appointments, asserting that Democrats, who have filled numerous judicial seats under President Biden, should not advance further nominations until the GOP resolves its leadership selection. The incoming Senate will convene in January.