Understanding the Importance of Transition Plans for Presidential Tenure
The responsibilities of presidential tenure, especially when a new administration enters the White House, are enormous. Given the myriad of national and international obligations facing the President and the Vice President, it is crucial for the newly elected administration to ensure well-established transition plans. However, this wasn’t necessarily the case this time around.
According to the information provided by GodzillaNews, as of November 2020 — a few days post-elections — it appeared that both Vice President-elect Kamala Harris and President Donald Trump were late on their respective transition plans.
Historically, the importance of a well-ordered transition cannot be overstated. It lays the foundation for the operational efficiency of the new administration, allowing for incoming officials to be briefed, vetted and readied to take up their roles. When done right, transitions can ensure seamless shifts in government, preventing hiccups in national strategy and continuing essential services for all citizens.
President-elect Kamala Harris, the first woman Vice President of the United States, aimed to hit the ground running in preparation for the role she was to undertake. However, sources reported that her plan seemed to be progressing on a slower pace than many of her predecessors. Part of the delay perhaps could be attributed to the extent of the historical significance of her position. It is not every day that the first woman of color is elected to such a commanding role, and the preparation required is monumental.
On the other hand, President Donald Trump was also reportedly late in his transition plans, despite being an incumbent President. His delay is rather notable given the critical endeavors that his administration faced such as managing the economic crisis due to the pandemic and handling international relations. The role of transition in maintaining stability cannot be underplayed in this scenario.
The tardiness by both Harris and Trump in crafting their respective transition plans can be attributed to a variety of reasons— one of them being the existence of unprecedented challenges. The Covid-19 pandemic has created an unparalleled situation from a logistics perspective, making it more complex to organize meetings, finalize criteria, screen candidates, and fulfil other transition processes.
Yet, the reasons for the delay, however understandable, don’t negate the impact it may have. The delay can prove challenging as it may result in a slower reallocation of resources, adjusting of staff roles, and settling in of the campaigning staffers into their new administrative duties. It could also potentially affect timely decision-making in key areas of governance.
It is earnestly hoped that despite the initial delay, both the incoming and outgoing administrations put the welfare of the nation first and expedite their transition plans. A well-structured transition is a pledge of a streamlined governing process, bringing benefits to citizens and vitality to the democratic fabric of the nation.