President-elect Donald Trump’s transition team is opting to bypass traditional FBI background checks for certain Cabinet appointments, instead relying on private companies for vetting, according to sources familiar with the plan.
Trump and his allies believe the FBI process is slow and flawed, potentially hindering the swift implementation of his agenda.
Ultimately, Trump retains the authority to nominate individuals and grant access to classified intelligence, even if they bypass standard protocols established after World War II to prevent potential national security risks, such as undisclosed foreign ties. Sidestepping these norms reflects Trump’s mistrust of the national security establishment, often derided by him as the “Deep State.” Sources say Trump has questioned the need for traditional law enforcement vetting in private conversations.
Advisers reportedly circulated a memo urging Trump to bypass the FBI vetting process for select appointees in favor of faster private-sector vetting.
FBI background checks are a prerequisite for security clearances needed by roles such as attorney general. However, Trump, as president, could bypass concerns and directly order security clearances, a power he exercised during his first term for several individuals, including his son-in-law Jared Kushner. If Gaetz refuses to participate in the vetting process, the FBI may still conduct a basic review at the Senate’s request, though obtaining certain information without his cooperation could prove challenging.
The Trump transition team has not yet formally submitted candidates for security clearance vetting, raising concerns about delays in classified briefings for incoming officials. While Trump can grant access to sensitive information once sworn in, any delay in formal vetting could prevent key officials from receiving classified briefings until after his inauguration on January 20.
The team’s apparent lack of urgency mirrors Trump’s 2016 transition. Utilizing individuals with current or previous government clearance may expedite the process.
