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The Senate’s independence will face a significant test if President Donald J. Trump is elected for a second term. Trump’s potential nominees and his willingness to push the limits of executive power are seen as a threat to the Senate’s traditional role and the Constitution.
Written by Carl Hulse.
Reporting from the government building
The actions of President-elect Donald J. Trump in pushing boundaries within the government will challenge the Republican-controlled Senate to uphold its constitutional duty as a separate entity and a balance to the power of the president.
Mr. Trump has nominated several controversial candidates and has also indicated that he may challenge the power of Congress in other ways. When Republicans take control in January, they may face a difficult decision between supporting their own branch of government or giving in to a president who does not respect traditional government practices.
One major source of conflict is expected to arise from President Trump’s attempt to bypass the Senate’s usual confirmation process in order to appoint his supporters, some of whom have questionable pasts, to his cabinet. Additionally, Trump has made it clear that he anticipates Republicans in Congress to comply with his policy decisions, even if it means relinquishing Congress’s authority over federal spending. These powers are specifically granted to the legislative branch by the Constitution.
Legislators and experts are concerned that if Mr. Trump is allowed to bypass the Senate through recess appointments or less thorough background checks, it could have long-lasting negative effects on the Senate and weaken the constitutional system.
Ira Shapiro, a former Senate staffer and author, emphasized the importance of the advice and consent authority in the Senate as a crucial part of the checks-and-balances system.
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