Senator Josh Hawley (R-MO) called on his Republican colleagues Wednesday to give President-elect Donald Trump’s Cabinet nominees a fair hearing, emphasizing the importance of the confirmation process amidst intra-party skepticism.
Trump has suggested the possibility of bypassing the traditional confirmation route by using recess appointments for his Cabinet picks, some of whom have drawn sharp criticism from both Democrats and Republicans.
Speaking on Fox News with host Jesse Watters, Hawley urged the Senate to hear out each nominee, highlighting the value of transparency and debate. “Every single one of these nominees needs to have a confirmation hearing as quickly as possible,” Hawley stated. “Let these guys testify. Give them a shot. That’s what a hearing is for.”
One nomination sparking intense debate is that of former Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-FL), Trump’s pick for Attorney General. The choice has polarized Washington, drawing strong opposition from Democrats and unease among some Republicans.
Despite the noise, Hawley remained firm in his support. “Don’t go out and bash these people. At least allow them to make their case,” he said, adding that he believes the nominees have “momentum.”
Earlier in the day, Republican senators, along with Vice President-elect J.D. Vance (R-OH) and Gaetz, met to discuss the transition team’s agenda and strategies for winning over Senate support. Hawley described the meeting as productive, saying, “It’s full steam ahead.”
Hawley dismissed concerns raised by some GOP senators, attributing the uproar to media sensationalism and partisan attacks reminiscent of the treatment Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh endured during his confirmation. “The answer to that is let the guy speak,” Hawley asserted, defending Gaetz’s right to present his vision for the Department of Justice.
The senator also emphasized that Trump’s Cabinet should reflect the president-elect’s agenda and the broad coalition that propelled him to victory. He criticized what he called “establishment” disdain for Trump’s unconventional picks, arguing that these choices represent the will of the voters.
“President Trump deserves a Cabinet that aligns with his priorities,” Hawley said. “The press and the establishment may not like it, but this is about delivering on promises and putting America first.”