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The upcoming second term of President Donald J. Trump will test the Senate’s ability to remain independent. Trump’s potential nominees and his willingness to push the limits of his executive power could challenge the traditional role of the Senate and the principles of the Constitution.
Written by Carl Hulse
Reporting live from the seat of
President-elect Donald J. Trump’s desire to challenge the norms of government will put the Republican-controlled Senate to the test, as it must uphold its role as an independent body and a check on the power of the president.
As Mr. Trump presents a list of controversial potential nominees and hints at challenging congressional power in various ways, Republicans in the majority next year may face a difficult decision. They will have to decide between defending their institution or yielding to a president who disregards traditional government standards.
The main source of conflict is expected to arise from Mr. Trump’s attempt to bypass the Senate’s usual confirmation process in order to appoint his loyal supporters, some of whom have questionable pasts, to his cabinet. Additionally, the president-elect has indicated that he anticipates Republicans in Congress to comply with his policy demands, even if it means relinquishing Congress’s authority over federal spending. These powers are specifically designated to the legislative branch in the Constitution.
Legislators and experts believe that if Mr. Trump is allowed to bypass the Senate’s approval process for nominees by using recess appointments or less thorough background checks, it could cause long-lasting harm to the Senate and weaken the constitutional system.
Ira Shapiro, a former Senate staffer and author, emphasized the important role of the advice and consent authority in the Senate’s checks-and-balances system. This authority is vital to the Senate’s function and plays a central role in its responsibilities.
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