This is the third in a series of five posts on DHS’s Transition that offers advice to the next Administration. For more background on the challenges facing the Department, see the introductory post that stresses the importance of the Transition Manager as well as my second recommendation for the next President to be ready to go on Day One.
3) Listen to the key senior career leaders. Political appointees bring political capital, energy, and a drive to implement change. Senior career folks understand how to effect change within the bureaucracy and often have excellent ideas about what needs to be changed. The TM and new administration should not fall into the trap of thinking career executives are ideologically tainted – some are, most are not. Career executives and civil servants understand democracy and their role in government and want to be part of the new boss’ team.
