Max Steyer, President and CEO of the Partnership for Public Service, and Donald K. Sherman, Executive Director of Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington, join investigative reporter Eric Lipton to dive into the implications of Trump’s wealthy cabinet picks. They discuss potential conflicts of interest and how these appointments might prioritize personal profits over public welfare. The conversation highlights the role of government ethics and the need for transparency to protect democracy amidst Trump's business dealings and renewed foreign investments.

Max Steyer, CEO of the Partnership for Public Service, David Lewis, political science professor, and Jacqueline Simon, policy director for AFGE, dive into the future of the federal workforce. They explore the implications of initiatives aimed at reducing government positions, discussing the tension between efficiency and the security of civil servants. The guests highlight the critical differences between civil servants and political appointees, advocating for the merit-based system while addressing the challenges of misconceptions about federal workers and their essential contributions.

Asma Khalid, NPR's White House correspondent, shares insights on Biden's final months in office, while Jeff Mason from Reuters offers analysis on the presidential transition dynamics. Max Steyer discusses the critical nature of a smooth handover of power. The conversation covers Biden's rush to finalize aid to Ukraine, the challenges of a 'lame duck' presidency, and the delicate balance between domestic pressures and international commitments. The importance of communication between administrations is emphasized to ensure effective governance.