The Appointees Are Leaving!
So reports the Washington Post today, noting that almost half of the top politically appointed positions in government are vacant or being filled on a temporary basis. And it's unlikely that Congress will move very swiftly on pending nominations this late in the administration.
It's not exactly an unprecedented scenario, considering how late it is in the president's term, but, the Post's story notes, we're in kind of a dicey situation to be lacking high-level leadership, what with the deteriorating economic situation at home and a whole lot of military activity overseas.
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Government Executive Staff Correspondent Alyssa Rosenberg takes a look at news affecting the management and operations of the massive federal bureaucracy.
As Mr. Shoop points out, this situation is not unprecendented -- it happens every four years. Additionally, when the Presidency changes, there is a long period where substantial numbers of political appointments are vacant.
DavidG Posted Wednesday, May 28, 2008 11:56 PMThank goodness we have capable, informed career executives willing to step into the vacuum and provide competent "high-livel leadership" to keep the U.S. Government functioning.
This is why the government service was created in the first place. So that, despite the change in the administration, the government would continue to function.
Patricia L Posted Thursday, May 29, 2008 7:33 AMMore proof that we don't need them at all.
Charleen Posted Thursday, May 29, 2008 9:30 AMThese political appointees remind me of rats on a ship. They are the first to clammer aboard when the pickin's are fat and easy, and the first to jump when the ship starts to go down. Whatever happened to Loyalty, Duty, and Honor?
Charles Posted Thursday, May 29, 2008 10:57 AM