With some of President-elect Donald Trump’s Cabinet and other presumptive nominees facing an uncertain path to confirmation, some Republicans have considered embracing recess appointments to allow Trump to temporarily fill vacancies without Senate approval. But that approach might come with its own complications.
Many GOP senators have hesitated to cede authority over confirmations. With 53 Republican seats, nominees that can’t get majority support shouldn’t proceed, they argue. Former Florida GOP Rep. Matt Gaetz’s withdrawal as Trump’s selection for attorney general, then, would be an example of how the system should work.
Other senators have said that if the Democratic minority next year uses delay tactics — of the sort Republicans themselves employed regarding President Joe Biden’s judicial nominees before the Thanksgiving break, for example — Republicans will be more willing to allow recess appointments.
