In an effort to maintain power and ensure smooth sailing through the Senate confirmation process, President-elect Donald Trump’s chief of staff, Susie Wiles, has issued a clear mandate to his cabinet nominations: prevent posting on social media. The concept, sent out Sunday, came just weeks before the Senate trials are set to begin, and reflects the mounting pressure Trump’s team faces as assurance fights loom.
A line move for nominations
Wiles, known for her no-nonsense method and nicknamed the” Ice Maiden”, reiterated in a Dec. 29 note that no part of the approaching management or the change staff speaks for the president-elect or the United States. She advised all potential nominees to refrain from any common social media posts without the incoming White House counsel’s prior approval, urging anyone to avoid making any errors or questionable statements that could undermine the gentle process.
Wiles ‘ order was consistent despite acknowledging the joy of those joining the second Trump presidency. The decision highlights the high stakes being held as Trump’s contenders get ready for what appears to be a contentious confirmation hearing, especially with a GOP-controlled Senate that never afford to lose more than three seats from its own rates if Democrats back down.
The need for control
Some of Trump’s takes have already encountered tides of criticism in recent months, with contenders like Pete Hegseth—Trump’s pull for Defense Secretary—facing severe scrutiny over allegations of misconduct. Despite this, he has managed to secure some key support, including from Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa ), who recently praised his “encouraging conversations”.
Still, Trump’s team has made it clear: any public social media engagement could spell trouble. Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy’s recent social media posts, which caused controversy with their outspoken remarks on H-1B visas, are the subject of the directive. However, Wiles emphasized that the ban was a precautionary measure as the Senate confirmation process gears up and wasn’t directly related to this recent uproar.
Silence from key nominees
The memo appears to be having the desired impact. A review by The Post shows that most nominees, including some with the potential for tough questioning, have stayed silent on social media. This includes high-profile picks like Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Tulsi Gabbard, tapped for roles at the Department of Health and Human Services and the Office of National Intelligence, respectively. Both former Democrats have kept a low profile since Christmas, likely under the watchful eye of Trump’s team.
Notably, Hegseth has been quiet on social media despite facing a storm of allegations, including accusations of promoting “anti-Christian bigotry” over his cross tattoos. The defense secretary designee had previously used his platform to criticize these accusations, but now that the confirmation process is in full swing, he has avoided online conflicts.
A tight-lipped strategy for success
With the Senate confirmation hearings just around the corner, Trump’s nominees seem to be heeding the advice to stay silent, at least publicly. Behind closed doors, however, many have been working tirelessly to shore up support, including reaching out to senators across the aisle. The outcomes of these efforts are likely to influence Trump’s first term, and the stakes are high.
As the battle for confirmation intensifies, the silence from Trump’s team speaks volumes. Whether this strategy of discipline will pay off remains to be seen, but for now, the focus is clear: keep quiet, stay focused, and prepare for the tough questions ahead.
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