Trump Team Signs Transition Agreement Amidst Ongoing Negotiations with Justice Department and GSA

The team of President-elect Donald J. Trump has reached a transition agreement with the White House, which allows them to initiate formal discussions and briefings with outgoing agency staff members. This was confirmed by Mr. Trump's chief of staff on Tuesday evening. However, there remains a significant point of contention as Trump's team has yet to sign the necessary agreement with the Justice Department, which would enable the F.B.I. to conduct security clearances for members of the transition team. This lack of agreement means that officials from the Biden administration will be unable to share classified information with many of Trump's transition aides.

Moreover, the Trump team has also declined to sign an agreement with the General Services Administration. Such an agreement is traditionally established to provide essential resources including secure office spaces, government email accounts, and other forms of support that facilitate the transition. White House officials have expressed concerns that these refusals may hinder the ability to exchange information effectively with Trump's team over the impending two-month period. Historically, incoming presidents have typically signed pacts to ensure a smooth transfer of power, aiming for readiness by January 20 and maintaining basic ethical standards among officials.