OPM gives approval for Trump's beachhead teams to set foot ashore
The transition of power in the United States government often involves the appointment of temporary advisers to help guide the new administration. This practice, known as the Temporary Transition Schedule C Authority, has been used by several Presidents, including President Donald Trump.
Upon taking office, a President can appoint individuals to advisory or consultative senior executive service positions for up to 30 days before confirmation. These temporary appointees, often referred to as "beachhead" officials, can serve as senior advisers to the secretary of various departments, weighing in on matters related to policies, priorities, and program direction, as well as the structure, organization, and operation of the department.
During Trump's presidency, he appointed 536 such temporary officials. These appointees were intended to serve until Senate-confirmed officials were in place and help establish the new administration's priorities. The temporary appointees generally lacked the authority to make policy due to their temporary status, but they could work on special assignments, assess the impact of proposed policies, and coordinate with department officials and other stakeholders.
The Agriculture Department, for instance, could bring on 93 individuals under TTC. Cabinet-level agencies can make five non-career SES appointments, while other agencies can institute up to three such appointments. These appointments must be made by Feb. 15 and can only last for 30 days.
President-elect Donald Trump can use these transition authorities to place his nominees in temporary positions at federal agencies and departments. The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) has sent guidance to agency heads outlining these transition authorities for the incoming administration.
The Partnership for Public Service emphasizes the temporary authority from the Office of Personnel Management as a significant method for a new administration to begin governing. This is particularly important as the new administration sets its priorities and works to implement its policies.
Comparatively, President-elect Joe Biden swore in 1,100 appointees on his Inauguration Day. While Trump has announced 92 individuals he intends to nominate, as of now, he has fewer appointees compared to Biden at this point.
It is worth noting that the use of temporary appointees is not a new practice. Both Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama used day-one beachhead teams, but to a lesser extent and for more specific roles than Trump. In some cases, these temporary appointees were used to block any rules or statements that aligned with the previous administration's priorities, as was the case with President George W. Bush.
In conclusion, the Temporary Transition Schedule C Authority provides a means for a new administration to begin governing from day one. While the use of temporary appointees can be controversial, it is a tool that has been used by several administrations to help smooth the transition of power and establish their priorities.
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