GOP Leaders Block Trump Recess Appointments

Rep. Thomas Massie, along with Senators Mike Lee and Ron Johnson, are criticizing GOP leadership—specifically Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Majority Leader John Thune—for planning frequent pro forma sessions during the August recess to prevent President Trump from making recess appointments. The Constitution allows the president to make temporary appointments when the Senate is not in session, but these sessions keep Congress technically in session and block the process. Critics argue this strategy undermines Trump's ability to staff his administration efficiently, especially with over 130 nominees pending and ongoing Democratic obstruction. Political analysts suggest GOP leaders are using the tactic to retain leverage over Trump and control the nominations process. The dispute has intensified internal Republican divisions, as Massie remains at odds with both Trump and Johnson. This controversy adds further complexity to the already fraught process of presidential appointments.