A Better Government | Congressional Reform
Appointments
The frequent change of presidential administrations, and the personnel overhaul with which it is usually accompanied, creates a dangerous vulnerability within our national security system. As the 9/11 Commission Report explains, “Since a catastrophic attack could occur with little or no notice, we should minimize as much as possible the disruption of national security policymaking during the change of administrations by accelerating the process for national security appointments.”
Hindered by delays resulting from disputed election results, the transition of 2000-2001 exposed serious deficiencies in the process of filling national security posts. Until nearly six months into the Administration, key positions still remained vacant. Whether this contributed to the events of 9/11 is difficult to determine, but is a risk that clearly must not be taken in the future. Both the Senate and the president-elect should make a concerted effort to streamline the appointment process for high-level national security positions for the incoming administration. As the 9/11 Commission confirms, “the process could be improved significantly so transitions can work more effectively and allow new officials to assume their new responsibilities as quickly as possible.”
9/11 Commission Recommendation:
“Since a catastrophic attack could occur with little or no notice, we should minimize as much as possible the disruption of national security policymaking during the change of administrations by accelerating the process for national security appointments. We think the process could be improved significantly so transitions can work more effectively and allow new officials to assume their new responsibilities as quickly as possible."
Read the recommendation in context in the 9/11 Commission Final Report, Chapter 13
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