House Bets. . .

(House Bets. . )

There is something to be said for intrinsic value. In assembling his Cabinet, President Trump had picked a few Republican House Members to fill key positions. Michael Waltz, previously a Florida Congressman, is, for the moment, the National Security Adviser. Matt Gaetz, also from Florida, had been selected as Attorney General, but that nomination imploded. Elise Stefanik had been tapped to be U.N. Ambassador, but the President had to withdraw her nomination, so she could still stand in Congress.


In some fashion, the GOP Majority in the House is an artificial creation. The Gaetz and Waltz seats could be filled by next Tuesday, hopefully with two more Republicans, or at least what the RNC would be expecting. It must also be remembered that Speaker McCarthy was forced out by Congressman Gaetz and he left for California. And George Santos from New York could have been allowed to retain his seat.


None of these options were explored, however and assuming two Republicans get put back in from Florida, and Ms. Stefanak does not become U.N. Ambassador, the final House Republican Majority will be 218 Republicans to 215 Democrats. If Florida stays red, and Stefanik stays that might put the GOP back to 220. Math is never a strong suit, however.


President Trump poached these House Members in the first place because he was assured of their loyalty. He was also confident in their respective abilities and why Waltz is at NSA, Pam Bondi was chosen over Matt Gaetz. Loyalty and ability are qualities valuable to an executive and for the Chief Executive. In assembling this Cabinet, Trump tapped House Republicans and while they will excel in the new post, a well of ability was found but it would serve to detract.


Regardless of the source, the President Trump knows the people he wants to work for him. His whole career, in and out of politics, has been replete with professionals. It is therefore making sense to keep Congresswoman Stefanik in the House and let someone else go the U.N. Like that would be a central policy goal of the Trump Administration. The East River Monolith can wait. The Trump agenda to be passed from the House cannot.

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