Opening Arguments The Vacancies Act - How Trump Has Used and Abused It, and Might Again
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Jan 27, 2025 In this engaging discussion, Stanford Law professor Anne Joseph O’Connell, an expert on the Federal Vacancies Reform Act, unpacks the nuances of presidential power and accountability, particularly during Trump’s presidency. O’Connell reveals how the Act was potentially circumvented to appoint acting heads without Senate confirmation. She shares insights from her own experience in government, the implications of 'acting' appointments on national policy, and memorable moments clerking for Ruth Bader Ginsburg, blending legal expertise with personal anecdotes.
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Termination from ACUS
- Anne Joseph O’Connell was recently fired from the Administrative Conference of the United States (ACUS) Council via a direct email.
- She was appointed by President Biden but fired on behalf of President Trump, finding it interesting that only two women were fired while others appointed by Biden remained.
Path to Administrative Law
- O’Connell's interest in government stemmed from her upbringing and early work experience, including working for the U.S. Army in high school.
- Her career path was shaped by the 2000 election uncertainty, leading her to choose federal programs over antitrust at the Department of Justice.
DOJ Experiences
- O’Connell describes her diverse experiences at the DOJ, including working on anti-terrorism task forces after 9/11.
- She also defended the National Zoo's pandas in a lawsuit involving a Chinese gun company and a default judgment against China.