Trump seeks to bypass Senate confirmation process with 'recess appointments'. Here's what it means

US President-elect Donald Trump on Sunday (Nov 10) demanded that Republican senators allow him to bypass the Senate confirmation process for key appointments. This, as per reports, aims to sidestep Democratic opposition and maintain momentum for his administration.

Trump made the demand on social media platform X (previously known as Twitter), stressing that any Republican senator vying for leadership must support the use of recess appointments to confirm his nominations without a Senate vote.

What is the usual process?

Under the US Constitution, the Senate typically holds the power to approve presidential appointments for senior positions, such as cabinet roles and judicial appointments. However, a provision allows presidents to bypass this process if the Senate is in an extended recess.

Historically, the Senate has used various tactics to avoid prolonged recesses to protect its influence over such nominations, reports AFP.

Trump, referring to the delays during his first term, stated that the Senate must avoid lengthy confirmation processes that could take years. He argued that “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.”

What did Trump say?

Taking to X, Trump said,“Sometimes the votes can take two years, or more. This is what they did four years ago, and we cannot let it happen again. We need positions filled IMMEDIATELY!,” he remarked.

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. Sometimes the votes can take two years, or more. This is… — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 10, 2024

“Additionally, no Judges should be approved during this period of time because the Democrats are looking to ram through their Judges as the Republicans fight over Leadership. THIS IS NOT ACCEPTABLE,” he alleged.

The three senators vying for the Republican leadership in the upcoming Senate expressed varying levels of support for recess appointments. Rick Scott, John Thune, and John Cornyn all pledged to act quickly and decisively on Trump's nominations.

Elon Musk, an outspoken Trump supporter also backed Trump and said, "This is essential. There is no other way."

(With inputs from agencies)