Former U.S. Secretary of the Interior David L. Bernhardt reveals an intriguing secret about his experience working with President Donald Trump in his new book, “You Report to Me: Accountability for the Failing Administrative State.” Bernhardt recounts a conversation with Trump in 2018, where the president appointed him as acting secretary and asked if he had any questions. Bernhardt, aware of the typical bureaucratic hurdles faced by cabinet secretaries, asked, “Who do I report to?” Trump responded, “You report to me.”
This direct access to the president proved to be a game-changer for Bernhardt. He explains that it allowed him to avoid the inactivity he experienced during his time under President George W. Bush. Bernhardt emphasizes the importance of this access, stating that it reflects the reality of the presidency and the power conferred upon the president by the Constitution.
Bernhardt’s book also addresses the issue of bureaucratic dominance in the government. He argues that Congress delegates most policy-making to the bureaucracy, leaving little accountability. He expresses concern about the lack of compliance with laws, regulations, and the policies of elected presidents within the executive branch. Bernhardt believes that many employees feel they can disregard these guidelines, while agency leaders often view themselves as figureheads rather than supervisors.
The author highlights the influence of career bureaucrats in policy-making and enforcement, often operating with minimal oversight from political appointees. He supports reining in unions, holding poor performers accountable, and implementing at-will employment to restore the original vision for merit service.
Bernhardt also criticizes the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for its dominance over agency political appointees and interference in the decision-making process. He argues that political heads appointed by elected presidents should make important decisions, rather than career bureaucrats. Bernhardt suggests that executive orders have some legal authority but are not laws themselves.
While sympathetic towards careerists, Bernhardt emphasizes the need for political control of the bureaucracy. He advises political appointees to familiarize themselves with the relevant statutes, regulations, and manuals to make informed decisions. He also urges them to be cautious of their actions and words, as they may be documented and used against them.
Overall, Bernhardt’s book sheds light on the importance of political control in the bureaucracy and the need for accountability within the executive branch. He believes that a strong relationship between political appointees and the elected president is crucial for effective governance.
