Trump challenges GOP Senate with controversial Cabinet nominations

President-elect Donald Trump has announced plans to nominate controversial figures for his Cabinet, including Rep. Matt Gaetz as attorney general. This move challenges congressional Republicans, particularly newly elected Senate majority leader John Thune, to respond. Gaetz, who has faced ethics investigations and is unpopular among some GOP members, resigned from the House following the nomination announcement. Trump also suggested bypassing Senate confirmation votes for his appointments during recess. Republican senators have been cautious in their responses, with some expressing skepticism about Gaetz. Democrats criticized the nomination, viewing it as a test of Republican loyalty to Trump over their principles.