Trump's Kakistocracy
The triumph of retribution over experience
This week, U.S. President-elect Donald Trump began announcing his cabinet picks. Three picks have drawn particular controversy: former Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.) as Attorney General, former Democratic Rep. Tulsi Gabbard as Director of National Intelligence, and Fox News host Pete Hegseth as Defense secretary.
Collectively, these picks resemble a kakistocracy, defined as a government run by the worst, least qualified, or most unscrupulous citizens. None of these picks should surprise anyone: Trump has indicated that he values loyalty and retribution over expertise and experience.
Why are these picks so bad?
