Despite anti-Russian rhetoric from both Republicans and Democrats, Trump’s administration will need to boost relations with the Kremlin to avoid further escalation.
Along the same lines, Trump will need to overcome general accusations that he is not experienced in foreign relations, and is not qualified to represent the US abroad.
Cabinet Selections
While Trump’s cabinet selections have been well-received by the Republican base, there are rumblings of Democrat opposition and potential delays to cabinet confirmations.
Republicans and Democrats alike have expressed doubts about his alleged selection for Secretary of State, Exxon Mobil CEO Rex Tillerson due to his ties to Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Trump should not have any difficulty with most of his cabinet selections, but if there is any Republican opposition to a selection, it may not get the votes necessary to pass.
Most of the criticism has not been due to the experience of his nominees but has been due to the opposition that the nominees have expressed for the departments they would be in charge of. Betsy DeVos, for example, has been nominated as Education Secretary but is a strong advocate for private school options. Tom Price, nominated as Secretary of Health and Human Services, has been a vocal critic of Obamacare.
