The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly: Trump’s Cabinet and Staffing Selections | Libertarian: Richard Epstein | Hoover Institution
Nov 14, 2024
auto_awesome
Richard Epstein, a senior fellow at Hoover and law professor at NYU, dives into Trump's unconventional cabinet appointments. He discusses the implications of figures like Susie Wiles as Chief of Staff and critiques national security selections, stressing the need for pragmatic governance. Epstein evaluates the new EPA leadership, advocating for a balanced approach to environmental issues. He also explores recess appointments and their power dynamics, weighing the risks of bypassing Congress and potential impeachment threats.
Susie Wiles’ appointment as Chief of Staff is viewed positively for her organizational skills and ability to enhance administrative efficiency in the Trump administration.
Concerns surrounding Matt Gates' nomination as Attorney General highlight the need for a qualified candidate to uphold the integrity of the justice system.
Deep dives
Chief of Staff Appointment
Susie Wiles has been appointed as Chief of Staff, and her background suggests she will serve effectively in this role. She is recognized for her strong organizational skills and political acumen derived from her extensive experience in running campaigns in Florida. Critics emphasize the need for a chief of staff who acts as an honest broker rather than a strong policy maker, and Wiles seems to fit that profile well. Thus far, her appointment is seen as a solid choice that should enhance administrative efficiency.
National Security Leadership
Representative Mike Walsh is set to become the National Security Advisor, bringing with him a robust military background as a former Green Beret. The expectation is for him to adopt a more assertive stance compared to the previous administration, particularly in reversing the Biden administration's lackluster handling of conflicts like Ukraine. Experts agree that a strong military leadership focus is necessary to secure favorable outcomes in international relations. This appointment is viewed positively given his warrior credentials and the urgent need for a decisive national security strategy.
Controversial Appointments
The potential nomination of Matt Gates as Attorney General has raised significant concerns given his controversial political history. Critics argue that Gates lacks the necessary qualifications and temperament to take on such a crucial role in the justice system. Additionally, there is discomfort around using a recess appointment to bypass standard confirmation processes, which could undermine governmental integrity. Observers express hope that sound judgment prevails to select a more suitable candidate for the position to maintain respect for the rule of law.
Approach to Immigration Policy
Tom Homan has been suggested for the role of border czar, with a focus on deporting illegal immigrants who have committed felonies. While some view his tough stance as necessary for addressing the chaotic immigration policies of the previous administration, there are concerns about the social repercussions of such broad deportation strategies. Balance is needed in addressing the immigration crisis without alienating long-standing residents and families of layered citizenship. Homan's conditional agreement is mostly cautious, emphasizing the complexity of the immigration landscape under current political climates.
Richard Epstein reacts to the long list of appointees to Trump’s cabinet, including his less-than-traditional selections for Secretary of Defense, Director of National Intelligence, and Attorney General. He also addresses the suggestion that Trump use Article II, Section 3 to recess-appoint his whole cabinet.
Recorded on November 13th, 2024.
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode