Staff Reports
Karl Rove, former White House deputy chief of staff and political strategist, is weighing in on the challenge ahead for President-elect Donald Trump as he assembles his new administration. Rove’s latest advice echoes what many seasoned observers already know: it’s not just about who occupies the big chair; having a competent team is crucial, especially for those diving into the murky waters of federal bureaucracy. As Trump accelerates the appointments to his second Cabinet faster than most can blink, Rove emphasizes that the efficacy of these appointees hinges on the ability of their deputies.
Rove’s op-ed showcases what he believes to be a major oversight potential: several of the incoming Cabinet members lack the necessary experience to effectively navigate the departments they are about to run. This becomes all the more pressing when combined with an administration style that is inherently disruptive. It’s one thing to shake things up; it’s another to do so with an inexperienced crew that could easily fumble the ball on issues that require an in-depth understanding of complex bureaucratic structures.
When discussing the challenge of getting Trump’s nominees confirmed, Rove highlights Lee Zeldin’s appointment to the Environmental Protection Agency. Although Zeldin is praised as a capable leader, Rove warns that the EPA is notorious for being an intricate and often Kafkaesque department. The implication is clear; Zeldin will need a seasoned deputy to help him navigate the bureaucratic landscape and avoid the pitfalls that inexperienced leaders often stumble into. This philosophy applies to all of Trump’s picks—having strong support is imperative for achieving successful governance.
Rove also cites Jim O’Neill, Trump’s choice for deputy secretary of health and human services, as an example of a well-rounded appointee. O’Neill’s extensive experience is positioned as a lifeline for Robert Kennedy Jr., who faces an uphill battle in the Senate for his nomination. It seems Rove is clarifying a stark reality: without knowledgeable second-in-commands, even the best-intentioned nominees will struggle in the face of bureaucracy that is specifically designed to slow things down.
Karl Rove urges Trump to choose deputy department heads ‘who have been in the trenches’ https://t.co/obA9GosIYN
— Washington Examiner (@dcexaminer) November 29, 2024
Despite the GOP’s hard-earned trifecta, Republicans have a narrow margin in the House, meaning a significant legislative agenda could quickly become derailed without a solid plan in place. It’s almost comical that as some Cabinet nominees drift in from the world of reality television or sports commentary, the critical importance of actual government experience is tossed aside like yesterday’s headlines. Pete Hegseth and Sean Duffy might entertain us, but their lack of experience in senior defense and transportation roles could create significant roadblocks in their confirmations and performance.
Rove’s observations reveal a broader concern that Trump’s administration will grapple with the complexities of governing. With looming midterm elections, the stakes are higher than ever. For Trump to succeed in implementing his vision for the country, it becomes imperative to select leaders who aren’t just good TV fodder but actual experts who understand the nuances of their departments. As Rove captures it, getting it right at the top is vital, but who fills the second-in-command roles might be equally telling in determining whether the Trump administration will deliver on its promises or succumb to the pitfalls of inexperience.
