Part 1: Why the President’s Cabinet Matters

"Understanding Trump’s New Cabinet: The Series"

What is the Cabinet?

The Cabinet is a group of advisors chosen by the president to lead major government departments, like defense, education, and healthcare. These individuals help the president make decisions and run the country. Each Cabinet member is in charge of a specific area of government and works with teams to create policies, enforce laws, and manage services that affect everyday Americans.  

Why Does the President Get to Pick?

The U.S. Constitution gives the president the power to appoint Cabinet members, but there’s a catch: these picks must be approved by the Senate. This ensures that the president’s team is qualified and has the trust of lawmakers.  

Why the Cabinet is Important 

The Cabinet helps shape how the government runs during the president’s time in office. For example, the Secretary of Defense might help decide how to handle conflicts overseas, while the Secretary of Education could influence school policies. A strong Cabinet can make a president’s ideas successful, while a weak one can create problems.  

How Do You Get Appointed to the Cabinet?

First, the president chooses candidates who are experts in their fields or have strong political connections. Once nominated, the Senate holds hearings to ask questions and decide if the person is fit for the job. If the Senate approves, the nominee becomes part of the Cabinet.  

This year, President-elect Donald Trump has picked people with strong conservative views and ties to his campaign. With Republicans controlling the Senate, most of Trump’s choices are expected to be confirmed, even if some are controversial.