Top Republican Says Trump Nominees Are 'Disruptors'
Washington D.C. - President-elect Donald Trump's cabinet nominations have been described by top Republicans as "disruptors" who will shake up the status quo in the government.
According to House Speaker Mike Johnson, Trump's nominees are individuals who will bring about change and have a significant impact on the administration. This characterization comes as Trump continues to announce officials for key positions, often choosing close allies over more experienced candidates with related policy expertise.
Several of these nominations have sparked controversy and raised concerns among Democrats and Republicans alike. The nominations include Pete Hegseth, Trump's choice for defence secretary who has denied allegations of sexual assault; Matt Gaetz, the attorney general nominee embroiled in an ethics scandal; and Robert F Kennedy Jr., the health secretary nominee with a history of vaccine scepticism.
Trump's son, Donald Trump Jr., defended his father's nominees on Sunday, stating that "we know who the good guys and bad guys are" and that they will surround Trump with people who are competent and loyal. However, some critics argue that these nominations prioritise loyalty over qualifications and experience.
One of the latest nominees is Chris Wright, a former oil executive nominated as energy secretary. Wright has climate scepticism and no government experience but has worked on the US's fracking boom, which could help fulfill Trump's campaign promise to increase fossil fuel production.
The appointment of Wright brings another win for the fossil fuel industry, which has been a key part of Trump's platform. The president-elect's stance on renewable energy sources such as wind power is set to be further influenced by his energy secretary nominee.
Meanwhile, President Joe Biden has gained international attention for being the first sitting US president to visit the Amazon rainforest, highlighting the importance of addressing climate change and environmental issues.