President Donald Trump has been actively selecting individuals to fill key roles within his incoming administration, with a focus on appointing loyalists to prominent positions. Over the weekend, Trump announced several significant appointments, including naming fracking executive Chris Wright as the energy secretary. Additionally, he appointed his personal lawyer, William Owen Scharf, to the crucial role of White House staff secretary, responsible for managing the flow of documents to and from the president. Brendan Carr, an ally of Trump within the FCC, was chosen to lead the agency.
However, some of Trump's Cabinet picks are facing scrutiny due to past allegations. Lawmakers, including Senate Republicans, are calling for a review of sexual misconduct accusations against Matt Gaetz, the nominee for attorney general. Another nominee, Pete Hegseth, who is slated to become the defense secretary, is under fire following the revelation of a 2017 sexual assault allegation. Sources indicate that Hegseth did not undergo thorough vetting, and his lawyer confirmed a settlement with the accuser that included a confidentiality clause, although he denies the assault occurred.
Most of Trump's Cabinet selections are subject to Senate approval, a process that will test the loyalty of GOP senators. Trump is reportedly urging Republican leaders to bypass traditional confirmation hearings through procedural maneuvers, a move that deviates from recent norms.
