Challenges of Staffing a New Administration

A new president faces significant challenges in staffing their administration, particularly with regard to the National Security Council (NSC). Upon entering the White House, many documents and resources from the previous administration are removed, leaving few materials for the incoming team. For instance, in historical transitions, such as from Gerald Ford to Jimmy Carter, incoming National Security Advisors had to start with almost no staff and records. Fortunately, provisions can be made for junior staff to remain and important documents to be copied beforehand, establishing continuity for effective operation.