Conservative commentator George Will, known for his critical stance within the Republican Party, has levied strong accusations against President Joe Biden, alleging that Biden is employing authoritarian tactics reminiscent of former President Donald Trump.
In remarks reported by Raw Story on Wednesday, January 3, 2024, Will contends that Biden’s recent actions, including specific appointments and policy decisions, mirror the disregard for constitutional boundaries and legal protocols often associated with Trump.
One instance highlighted by Will is Biden’s nomination of Ann Carlson for the position of administrator of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in March, a nomination that faced insufficient Senate votes for confirmation and was withdrawn just two months later.
Of particular concern to Will is the subsequent appointment of Carlson as the acting administrator of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration by Biden, despite the earlier withdrawal of her nomination. Will argues that this move directly conflicts with the Vacancies Act, which prohibits nominees from assuming acting roles in such situations.
Will describes Biden’s action as “Trumpian” in its apparent disregard for legal constraints, suggesting similarities between Biden’s approach and the authoritarian tendencies observed during Trump’s tenure, characterized by a disregard for established norms and laws.
In his critique, Will draws comparisons between Biden and Trump, labeling both as authoritarian figures inclined to skirt the rules. He notes that while Trump encountered significant obstacles in bypassing Congress for his agendas, particularly concerning the border wall, Biden appears to have navigated around Congressional limitations more effectively.
Highlighting the limited duration of Carlson’s appointment, which expired within 210 days in accordance with the Vacancies Act, Will warns against hailing this as a triumph for constitutional adherence. He expresses apprehension that adherence to constitutional propriety and legality has become a contentious issue in today’s political landscape.
Will’s critique serves as a stark cautionary note regarding what he perceives as a erosion of established norms and legal boundaries within the Biden administration.
The comparison drawn by Will between Biden’s actions and those of Trump underscores a growing trend of executive power sidestepping established norms, as per his analysis.
Will’s allegations resurface concerns about the balance of executive power and the adherence to legal protocols within the Biden administration, echoing worries about the weakening of constitutional propriety in the political domain.
