President-elect Donald Trump’s transition team is preparing a bold move that could reshape federal security protocols, signaling a decisive approach to addressing perceived challenges within the FBI and Justice Department.
With a hint of strategic defiance, the incoming administration plans to grant sweeping security clearances to political appointees on day one, bypassing traditional FBI background check processes. This approach reflects the team’s deep-seated concerns about the bureau’s previous investigations and potential institutional bias.
The strategy comes after years of contentious interactions between Trump and federal law enforcement agencies. Transition lawyers argue that the move is necessary to ensure a clean slate for the new administration, protecting potential appointees from what they view as unwarranted scrutiny.
Under the proposed plan, political appointees would receive immediate clearances, with more comprehensive background checks conducted after Trump’s team takes control of key federal positions. This approach marks a significant departure from standard transition protocols.
Sources close to the transition team suggest the plan stems from long-standing frustrations dating back to the Russia investigation during Trump’s first presidency. The team remains skeptical of FBI vetting processes, viewing them as potentially politically motivated.
Trump spokesperson Brian Hughes emphasized that the transition team continues to engage constructively with current administration lawyers, maintaining a veneer of professional cooperation while preparing for a comprehensive administrative reset.
