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The Conversation
The Conversation
Politics
Jennifer Selin, Associate Professor of Law, Arizona State University

Why does the Senate confirm Trump’s picks for key posts — and how? A legal scholar explains the confirmation process and the ‘constitutional loophole’ of recess appointments

Donald Trump Andrew Jackson Roger Taney FBI George Washington the Office of Government Ethics the Supreme Court Barack Obama John Tower Lewis Strauss
Will Trump nominee Matt Gaetz be able to ascend to the top position at the Justice Department? Tom Williams/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images

Since Election Day, President-elect Donald Trump has moved quickly to name his picks for key cabinet posts such as attorney general and the secretaries of defense, health and human services, and state.

Reaction to these nominees ranges from excitement to shock, but one thing is clear: Trump seeks a cabinet filled with staunch allies, even if those allies have little experience in government.

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