Morning Joe Podcast Summary – November 14, 2024

Hosts: Joe Scarborough, Mika Brzezinski, and Willie Geist
Guests: Jonathan Lemire (Politico), Katie Kay (BBC News), Al Sharpton (National Action Network), David Rhode (NBC News), Chuck Rosenberg (Former U.S. Attorney), Tom Nichols (The Atlantic)
Release Date: November 14, 2024

1. Introduction and Overview

The episode of Morning Joe kicks off with the hosts acknowledging the day's significant political developments, primarily focusing on President Elect Donald Trump's controversial cabinet nominations. The discussion centers on Republican Congressman Matt Gaetz's nomination for Attorney General and Tulsi Gabbard's nomination for Director of National Intelligence (DNI), examining the implications these choices have for national security and the functioning of key government departments.

2. Trump's Nomination of Matt Gaetz for Attorney General

Background and Controversies: Matt Gaetz, a Republican Congressman from Florida, has been a polarizing figure, facing investigations for alleged sexual misconduct, illegal drug use, and accepting improper gifts. Despite the FBI's investigation into sex trafficking allegations ending without charges in February 2023, Gaetz's nomination has caused bipartisan concern.

Senate Reactions: Republican senators, including prominent figures like Senators Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski, have expressed significant doubts about Gaetz's suitability for the role. Al Sharpton notes, "Senators are disgusted by the investigations and some of the allegations Gaetz is facing" ([25:48]).

Guest Insights:

• Chuck Rosenberg emphasizes the unprecedented nature of the nomination, stating, "Gates is not only totally incompetent for this job, he doesn't have the character" ([33:12]). He further critiques the choice as a "mockery of government."
• Jonathan Lemire from Politico highlights the potential dangers, noting, "Matt Gaetz, based on his past activity, will repeat a false narrative that fits Donald Trump's personal political goals" ([12:42]).

Comparison to Past Attorneys General: Joe Scarborough reflects on previous Attorneys General like Dick Thornburgh and Jeff Sessions, emphasizing the importance of integrity, judgment, and independence—qualities Gaetz reportedly lacks.

3. Tulsi Gabbard’s Nomination for Director of National Intelligence

Qualifications and Controversies: Tulsi Gabbard, a former Democratic Congresswoman and Army Reserve Lieutenant Colonel, has never held a position within the intelligence community. Her tenure included meetings with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, leading to allegations of promoting Russian propaganda and undermining U.S. intelligence efforts.

National Security Concerns: Tom Nichols from The Atlantic articulates profound concerns about Gabbard's suitability, stating, "This is somebody who has consistently taken the side of people like Bashar Assad and Vladimir Putin" ([38:05]). He warns that her appointment would "wipe out" trust within the U.S. intelligence community and with international allies.

Impact on Intelligence Sharing: David Rhode discusses how Gabbard's position could lead foreign allies to withhold critical intelligence, undermining national security efforts ([37:24]).

4. Potential Use of Recess Appointments

Trump’s Strategy: Facing strong opposition in the Senate, Trump is reportedly pushing for recess appointments to bypass traditional confirmation processes. This approach, last attempted by President Obama and blocked by the Supreme Court, would allow Trump to unilaterally appoint cabinet members.

Legal and Political Implications: Al Sharpton points out the constitutional challenges, noting, "The last time this happened was under President Obama. The Supreme Court blocked him" ([26:07]). Chuck Rosenberg cautions that such moves could undermine Senate authority and democratic processes.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune’s Role: John Thune is under pressure to manage his caucus effectively to prevent controversial appointments through recess appointments, maintaining the Senate's role in advice and consent.

5. Broader Implications for the Trump Administration

Impact on Department of Justice and National Security: The nominations of Gaetz and Gabbard are seen as prioritizing personal loyalty and retribution over competence and national interest. Tom Nichols criticizes the choices as "playing to some cheap seats on the super right wing," detracting from critical national issues ([40:27]).

Potential for Institutional Damage: There is concern that these appointments could lead to a "chilling effect" on intelligence sharing and weaken institutions like the Department of Justice and the FBI, crucial for maintaining law and order.

Public and Political Backlash: The nominations have not only alienated Democrats but have also unsettled many Republicans who view Gaetz and Gabbard as unfit for their respective roles. Mika Brzezinski observes, "Republican senators on Capitol Hill reacting to Donald Trump's most controversial cabinet pick so far" ([02:00]).

6. Other News Highlights

• New York Toll Plan: Governor Kathy Hochul revives a toll for vehicles entering Midtown and Lower Manhattan, reducing the fee to $9 to counter President-elect Trump's opposition.
• Florida Hurricane: Prediction of a Category 3 hurricane named Sarah, posing significant flooding risks to the Gulf Coast.
• Death of Theodore Olson: The longtime attorney who played a pivotal role in the 2000 Florida recount and later advocated against same-sex marriage in California passes away at 84.
• Vermont Voting Record: Vermont sees a record number of votes cast in the latest elections, surpassing the previous tally from 2020.

7. Conclusion and Upcoming Topics

As the episode wraps up, the hosts preview upcoming discussions, including:

• White House Meeting: An analysis of the recent Oval Office meeting between President Biden and President-elect Trump, focusing on the promised peaceful transfer of power.
• Future Nominations: Continued scrutiny of Trump's cabinet choices and their implications for U.S. governance.
• Guest Appearances: Interviews with Democratic Senator Elizabeth Warren and Golden Globe nominee Richard Gere about their perspectives on current political events.

Notable Quote: Chuck Rosenberg underscores the gravity of the situation, stating, "Donald Trump had an opportunity... but he is now confirming our worst fears and making a mockery of government" ([21:48]).

Key Takeaways:

• President-elect Trump's nominations of Matt Gaetz and Tulsi Gabbard have sparked intense bipartisan criticism due to their perceived lack of qualifications and controversial backgrounds.
• The potential use of recess appointments raises significant constitutional and political concerns, challenging the Senate's traditional role.
• These appointments could severely impact national security, intelligence sharing, and the integrity of key government institutions.
• The episode highlights the broader implications for the incoming administration and the future direction of U.S. governance under Trump.

Timestamp Highlights:

• [02:00] Mika Brzezinski introduces the shocking nature of the nominations.
• [12:42] Jonathan Lemire discusses the dangers of Gaetz as AG.
• [25:48] Al Sharpton elaborates on Senate reactions to Gaetz.
• [33:12] Chuck Rosenberg criticizes Gaetz’s qualifications.
• [38:05] Tom Nichols outlines the risks of Gabbard as DNI.
• [26:07] Al Sharpton on the legal challenges of recess appointments.
• [40:27] Tom Nichols on the administration's impact on everyday Americans.

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the critical discussions and analyses from the Morning Joe episode, providing listeners with an in-depth understanding of the day's major political events and their far-reaching implications.