Burrowing

When political appointees find permanent positions with the U.S. federal government – usually during a presidential transition.

In the final months of his second term, George W. Bush burrowed political supporters into the foundations of government, as The New York Timesreported:

All told, Mr. Bush has made roughly 30 personnel moves since the November election, some in nominations that will require Senate approval, and others in direct appointments that will last well into President-elect Barack Obama’s term and beyond.

Not that burrowing is new (Bill Clinton approved 45 conversions in his final year) or unlawful, even if it raises questions about the neutrality of the civil service or the qualifications of the appointees. Indeed, a spokesman for Mr. Bush told the Times, “We actually do have not just the authority, we have an obligation to do what we think is best for the country up until 11:59 a.m. on January 20.”