(ProsperNews.net) – President-elect Donald Trump has spoken up about the race for Senate leader, calling on whoever wins the spot to allow recess appointments now that Republicans control the Senate. In a post on social media, Trump argued that without these appointments, it would be nearly impossible to get his nominees confirmed in a timely manner.
For years, both parties have blocked recess appointments by holding brief “pro forma” sessions, which prevent the Senate from officially going into recess. This tactic stops the president from making any temporary appointments while the Senate is on break.
“Any Republican Senator seeking the coveted LEADERSHIP position in the United States Senate must agree to Recess Appointments (in the Senate!), without which we will not be able to get people confirmed in a timely manner,” Trump wrote. He warned that some appointments could otherwise be delayed by up to two years. He added that Democrats are likely to push through their own judicial nominees, and this must be avoided.
Trump has not officially endorsed any candidate for Senate leader. However, three Republicans are now running for the position: Senators Rick Scott from Florida, John Cornyn from Texas, and John Thune from South Dakota. Current Senate GOP leader Mitch McConnell from Kentucky is not seeking reelection for the position.
Scott responded to Trump’s statement, saying he fully supports Trump’s call for recess appointments and promises to do all he can to speed up the confirmation process for Trump’s picks. Thune, who is currently the Republican whip, also said that swift action is necessary. He stated that “all options are on the table” to prevent Democrats from blocking Trump’s choices.
On Saturday, Cornyn made it clear that he would hold the Senate in session until Trump’s Cabinet nominees are confirmed if he’s elected leader. He vowed to avoid any breaks or weekends, telling Democrats they could either cooperate or face constant sessions until confirmations are completed.
After Trump’s message, Cornyn posted again, stating that it’s wrong for Senate Democrats to block Trump’s Cabinet picks. He cited the U.S. Constitution, saying it allows the president to make recess appointments. Cornyn concluded by quoting the section that gives the president this power during Senate recesses.
Copyright 2024, ProsperNews.net
