Trump’s House GOP allies demand swift confirmation of Cabinet picks amid delays

A group of House Republicans is calling on the Senate to expedite the confirmation process for President-elect Trump’s Cabinet nominees. In a letter led by Rep. Pat Fallon of Texas and signed by at least 16 House Republican lawmakers, the group emphasized the need to reflect the will of the American people, who voted for a change from the previous administration.

The letter highlighted the importance of swiftly confirming President Trump’s executive branch nominees to ensure a smooth transition of power. The lawmakers urged their Senate colleagues to prioritize the confirmation hearings and provide their full support to Trump’s nominees.

The push for fast-tracking the confirmation process comes after some recent delays and dramatic hearings. Former Fox News Channel host Pete Hegseth faced tough questioning from Democrat senators during his nomination hearing for defense secretary. Allegations of infidelity and sexual misconduct were brought up, which Hegseth vehemently denied.

Protests disrupted multiple Senate confirmation hearings the following day, leading to delays in the proceedings. Nominees like Gov. Kristi Noem of South Dakota, Gov. Doug Burgum of North Dakota, and former Rep. Doug Collins faced setbacks due to procedural reasons.

The House Republicans emphasized that President Trump’s nominees were chosen based on their commitment to American values and the nation’s best interests. They stressed the importance of a united executive branch to steer the country in the right direction.

Despite expected support from the majority of Senate Republicans, ensuring the nominees’ confirmation requires unity within the party. With a slim majority of 53 seats, Senate Republicans must rally behind Trump’s choices to secure their confirmation.

First-term Sen. John Curtis of Utah expressed his intention to support Hegseth’s confirmation following his testimony to the Senate Armed Services Committee. However, doubts were raised about Trump’s nominee for director of national intelligence, former Rep. Tulsi Gabbard of Hawaii.

Hegseth received a boost when Sen. Joni Ernst of Iowa announced her support for his nomination after initially expressing concerns. The confirmation process remains a critical step in the transition of power, and Senate Republicans are urged to provide unwavering support for President-elect Trump’s nominees.