Would I prefer public opposition to Donald Trump's most troubling Cabinet picks? Yes, of course. But Senate Republicans' quiet defiance is having an impact.
Just ask Matt Gaetz, who was forced to withdraw as the candidate for attorney general just eight days after he was chosen.
And Trump's defense secretary pick, Pete Hegseth, may be next. Earlier this week, Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, didn't exactly give him a ringing endorsement on Fox News. "A number of our senators want to make sure that any allegations have been cleared," Ernst said. Now she is rumored to want the job herself. Hegseth should probably be worried.
Earlier this week, Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., shared that he had spoken with "five to 10" Republican senators who have privately voiced reservations about Hegseth. According to Blumenthal, these senators are "waiting for the right moment to say no to Pete Hegseth."
Of course, it would be better if these Republican senators aired their grievances publicly, especially when some of the allegations include serious misconduct. But their approach could still prevent Trump's most dangerous nominees from moving forward.
For now, one thing is clear: Republican senators may not be standing on principle in public, but Tulsi Gabbard had better prepare herself, because I suspect she may feel the power of their dissent next.
Read more exclusive insights from Jen Psaki here. And tune into "Inside with Jen Psaki" Mondays at 8 p.m. ET, and Sundays at 12 p.m. ET on MSNBC.
