Nepotism is an often-criticized practice that undermines meritocracy, but is a good thing for President Elect Donald J. Trump. Trump appointed Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner who are both members of the family. Trump appointed them because of his last presidential term. Scheming corrupt politicians betrayed him in his last presidency and his former vice president Mike Pence spoke ill of him and switched his political views because of trump.

Trump wants to make change and needs people in his cabinet that agree with him and have the same views. Trump’s preference for appointing family members or loyalists to key positions have faced criticism, but it is a strategic approach to ensuring trust and alignment in his leadership.

Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner, were not merely picked because of favoritism but pragmatic response to the challenges of governance. Kushner has played a key role with criminal justice reforms and Middle East peace agreements. Ivanka is the advisor to the president, and she focuses on the education and economic empowerment of women in government spaces. Lara Trump was the former co-chairwoman of the Republican National Committee and she will probably have a position in the cabinet.

The importance of loyalty in Trump’s administration became clear with figures like former Vice President Mike Pence. Pence, who was once an ally, refused to challenge the certification of the 2020 election results which was skewed by the Biden administration. Pence used Trump purely out of political convenience rather than genuine loyalty.

Other inner circle members from Trumps last term include John Bolton and Anthony Scaramucci, who both later publicly criticized the administration, reinforces the value of surrounding oneself with loyal family members. Nepotism appears as a safeguard against such betrayals. Prioritizing individuals who are inherently loyal ensures stability. The Trump presidency exemplifies how the presence of loyalty can play a crucial role in governing a country.