House Speaker Mike Johnson signaled openness to adjourning Congress to allow President-elect Donald Trump to bypass Senate confirmation and appoint Cabinet members through recess appointments. Johnson called the traditional Senate confirmation process ideal but noted that partisanship could necessitate alternatives to avoid government delays.
Johnson’s remarks, echoed by GOP Sen. Markwayne Mullin, reflect growing Republican frustration with anticipated opposition to Trump’s nominees, including controversial picks like former Rep. Matt Gaetz for attorney general. Democrats, led by Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, vowed to resist any attempt to sidestep Senate approval.
To enable recess appointments, both chambers must adjourn for at least 10 days—a move Democrats are likely to oppose, potentially setting up a contentious battle over Trump’s Cabinet confirmations.
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