Fatshimetrie – Donald Trump’s cabinet picks continue to stir controversy and divide the American political class. While some Republican senators appear dismayed by these increasingly provocative selections, the president-elect does not seem to deviate from his strategy. Indeed, it would seem that the main objective of these appointments is to provoke outrage.
The announcement of the nomination of Matt Gaetz, a Florida Republican known for his zeal and history with the Justice Department, as attorney general, sent shockwaves through Washington. Similarly, the nomination of Tulsi Gabbard, a former Democratic presidential candidate and now an ally of Trump in his vision of an intelligence community opposed to him, as director of national intelligence, also caused a reaction.
These choices for Donald Trump’s dream cabinet have caused a huge wave of unrest among the establishment elites, but have been greeted with joy by the president’s conservative supporters. These appointments fit neatly into Trump’s campaign promises and his political agenda of radical reform. As an outsider and a slayer of the establishment, Trump draws his political strength from this position, and if confirmed by the Senate, his appointments will be tasked with dismantling the government and ousting those Trump considers his enemies.
The reaction from elitists contrasts with the euphoria that is widespread on conservative networks and social media among Trump supporters. The president-elect won the election and has a mandate for change. His cabinet choices are proof of this, and they reflect an increasingly powerful president who is unfazed by critics who warn of the dangers his second term could pose to the rule of law.
Some observers compare these selections to a form of deliberate provocation, designed to annoy and unsettle his opponents. Anthony Scaramucci, Trump’s former communications director during his first term, has said the appointments were designed to “provoke liberals.” One of the only Democrats to respond, Sen. John Fetterman, called the choices “divine trolling” designed to stir up an outcry.
Matt Gaetz, who was under investigation by the House Ethics Committee, resigned from Congress after Trump announced him as his next attorney general. The appointment raises questions about Trump’s motivations and the direction of his upcoming administration. Is Trump looking for an attorney general to ensure the impartiality of the judiciary, or is it rather a strategy to protect his own interests and punish his opponents?
All of these choices for key government positions raise questions about Trump’s political vision for his second term, and highlight his apparent disregard for ethical standards and the rule of law. These appointments sow doubts about the direction the Trump administration will take after January 20, and raise concerns about ensuring justice and fairness in the country.
In short, Donald Trump’s cabinet choices are not just ordinary political appointments, but they reflect his desire to maintain his position as a political provocateur and continue to challenge the American establishment. As political polarization in the United States appears to be intensifying, the impact of these appointments on the political landscape and on American society as a whole remains to be seen.