The Senate confirmed more than 100 of President Trump’s nominees this week, even as federal departments remain shuttered amid the ongoing government shutdown.
Republican leaders pushed the confirmations through under revised Senate rules, citing the need to fill long-vacant posts. The nominations included key ambassadorial and administrative roles, such as Herschel Walker and Sergio Gor.
The moves drew sharp criticism from Democratic senators, who accused Republicans of prioritizing their agenda over funding the government. Meanwhile, Republicans countered that nominations and budget deals are separate responsibilities.
The confirmation wave signals that lawmakers are exerting new urgency to staff the executive branch—even while budget deadlock continues to block government operations.