Michael Lewis' Trump Exposé: A Rocky Handover

Have you ever wondered what happens during a presidential transition? How does the incoming administration prepare to take over the reins of government?

In his book The Fifth Risk, Michael Lewis explores the challenges faced during the Trump administration's transition into power. Michael Lewis' Trump exposé reveals a rocky handover process fraught with disorganization, misunderstandings, and potential risks to national security.

Dive into this eye-opening account of how the Trump team handled agency handovers and discover the far-reaching consequences of their approach.

The Trump Administration's Rocky Transition

When it comes to government transitions, smooth handovers are crucial for maintaining the country's stability and security. However, in The Fifth Risk, Michael Lewis' Trump administration exposé reveals how the incoming team's approach to agency handovers was far from ideal. Let's dive into the challenges and consequences of this tumultuous transition period as uncovered by Lewis's investigative reporting.

Lack of Engagement and Preparedness

One of the most striking aspects of the Trump administration's transition was their apparent disinterest in being ready to govern. Despite the importance of a comprehensive transition, which Chris Christie had emphasized, Trump directed him to stop transition activities. This lack of engagement set the tone for what was to come.

After the election, the Trump transition team's communication efforts were disorganized, and many team members weren't even cleared to participate in agency-level briefings. This unpreparedness was evident across multiple departments, including Energy, Agriculture, and Commerce.

At the Department of Energy, the transition team's leader arrived late and seemed to have goals that conflicted with the department's purpose. They even requested the names of staff members involved in climate change initiatives, hinting at a politically-driven approach.

The Department of Agriculture had prepared everything for the expected Trump transition team members, including workspaces and detailed orientations. However, only one person from another entity showed up to take charge. The appointment of the USDA's chief scientist came as a surprise to department insiders.

Misunderstanding Critical Responsibilities

Perhaps more concerning than the lack of engagement was the transition team's failure to grasp the vital responsibilities of key government agencies. This was particularly evident at the Department of Energy, where extensive briefings on oversight of nuclear weapons, energy research, and power generation went unshared and overlooked.

Thomas Pyle, a member of the Landing Team, exemplified this lack of understanding. During meetings with senior Department of Energy officials, he didn't take notes or ask for follow-up meetings, suggesting a superficial grasp of the department's crucial roles.

Political Motivations and Staff Disruptions

The Trump administration's transition was marked by politically-motivated staffing decisions and purges of career officials. These actions disrupted agency operations and led to a significant loss of institutional knowledge.

At the Department of Energy, there was a push to remove officials appointed during the Obama administration. Even the transition management team, including experienced figures like Chris Christie, was ousted, indicating political motives rather than a focus on smooth handovers.

Retaining Expertise: A Major Challenge

As the Trump administration took office, retaining experienced personnel and preserving institutional knowledge became a significant challenge. The new officials' indifference and sometimes hostile attitude created a discouraging environment for dedicated civil servants.

In the Department of Agriculture, many public servants found their expertise and roles diminished as individuals with no demonstrated knowledge of agriculture or government operations were appointed. This threatened the preservation of crucial institutional knowledge and scientific expertise necessary for achieving the organization's goals.

The Department of Energy faced similar issues. The lack of a key financial officer who understood the critical nature of their position highlighted the decline in specialized knowledge and created a growing void in the department's command chain.

The Importance of Government Data and Expertise

While the transition challenges were numerous, one of the most concerning aspects was the potential threat to government data and scientific integrity. Government agencies collect and protect vast amounts of vital data related to the environment, public health, economy, and other crucial sectors.

This data is essential for effective risk management and enhancing public health and safety. For example, the USDA manages programs affecting various sectors, from forest management to animal health monitoring. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, part of the Department of Commerce, gathers a wide array of weather-related data used by government bodies, commercial enterprises, and the general public.

Threats to Scientific Integrity

Attempts to compromise scientific research and limit access to government information can weaken evidence-based decision-making processes. During the transition, there were indications of potential risks to the integrity and access of scientific data, particularly related to climate science.

The case of whistleblowers at the Hanford site, who faced ostracism for raising issues, exemplifies how these behaviors can lead to less transparency about policy and research. This not only jeopardizes societal well-being but could also result in dependence on unverified scientific claims and politically influenced studies.

The Risks of Privatization

Another concern raised by Lewis is the potential privatization of government services. For instance, Barry Myers' stance favoring AccuWeather over government-provided meteorological services could compromise public well-being by reducing access to crucial data.

The mishandling of Medicaid and Medicare information that exposed the opioid crisis serves as a cautionary tale. It shows how appointing stakeholders with conflicting interests to oversee essential data stores can transform public resources into private benefits and undermine their value.

In conclusion, Michael Lewis's The Fifth Risk paints a concerning picture of the Trump administration's approach to government transition. From a lack of engagement and understanding to politically-motivated decisions and threats to scientific integrity, the challenges were numerous and significant. As you consider the importance of smooth government transitions, remember that they're not just about changing leadership – they're about preserving the expertise, data, and systems that keep our country running safely and efficiently.