Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer has urged incoming Republican Leader John Thune to follow traditional confirmation processes for nominees in a letter sent on Monday. The letter comes in response to President-elect Donald Trump’s desire to make recess appointments by urging Senate Republicans to recess for at least 10 days. With Republicans set to take the majority in the new Congress, Schumer emphasized the importance of working together to evaluate all incoming president’s nominations in a bipartisan manner.
Thune, who will lead the GOP senators next year, has not committed to recessing the chamber to allow Trump to make appointments but has emphasized the importance of processing nominees efficiently. Trump’s nominations have received mixed reactions from GOP senators, with some receiving high praise and others facing scrutiny. With a 53-seat majority in the Senate, Trump’s nominees could face challenges in securing confirmation if they lose the support of some Republican senators.
Schumer highlighted the Senate’s role in ensuring well-qualified individuals are appointed to serve the American people and uphold the Constitution. He emphasized the importance of upholding this duty regardless of political affiliations and called for cooperation in organizing committees in January. The letter underscores the need for the Senate to maintain its role as a check and balance in the confirmation process.
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