Trump Delays Power Transition Process: Risks to US National Security Increase - Media.

Trump's Team Missed Key Power Transition Deadlines

With just over 100 days left until the inauguration of the new US president, former President Donald Trump's team has already missed several important deadlines in the power transition process. This deviation from established practice poses a risk to the country's national security.

Delays in the transition planning process could lead to problems with the peaceful transfer of power. The future president will face serious challenges, such as hurricane aftermaths, conflict in the Middle East, and economic uncertainty.

According to the plan, campaigns were supposed to sign a memorandum of understanding with the General Services Administration (GSA), which provides access to office spaces, communications, and IT support by September 1. Additionally, by October 1, both campaigns were to sign a separate memorandum with the White House that would define access conditions to agencies, including personnel, facilities, and documents.

"Lack of participation in transition activities will put our country at risk," warns Max Stier, president and CEO of the Partnership for Public Service.

At the same Time, Joe Biden's administration has long begun preparing for the transition. A federal transition coordinator has already been appointed, and in April 2024, the Office of Management and Budget issued a memorandum listing necessary actions for each federal agency. The agency's board of directors has started monthly meetings with career service representatives from each agency.

Unlike the 2016 transition preparation, Trump's team is taking a less active approach. They missed key deadlines for signing memorandums and the ethical plan, which is a departure from standard practice. Trump has expressed intentions to change the federal government by transforming career positions into political ones. However, such actions could lead to workforce politicization and the loss of experienced employees.

Representatives of Trump's team declined to comment on the delays in the transition process. However, experts warn that such a stance could complicate the rapid start of a new administration if Trump wins and jeopardize national security.

If Kamala Harris wins, she can retain a significant portion of the current administration's knowledge. But if Trump wins, significant changes in the federal government may occur, leading to delays in the new administration's start due to insufficient preparation. If the election result remains unknown for five days, both teams will gain access to federal agencies.