Kamala Makes Controversial Hire
Vice President Kamala Harris’s campaign has appointed Yohannes Abraham to play a pivotal role in preparing for a possible presidential transition. Abraham, who is currently serving as the U.S. ambassador to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) from Jakarta, will be finishing his assignment in Indonesia soon, according to NBC News.
In his new position, Abraham will lead a dedicated team responsible for setting up the framework for Harris to establish an administration if she wins the election against former President Donald Trump. Abraham’s extensive experience in international diplomacy and his prior involvement in U.S. political transitions make him a fitting choice for this task.
Abraham has spent the last two years strengthening U.S. ties with Southeast Asian nations. Before his ambassadorship, he was the chief of staff at the National Security Council, where he managed the White House Situation Room. He also played a key role in President Joe Biden’s 2020 transition team and worked closely with Harris during that period.
The General Services Administration (GSA) is also preparing for the transition process and plans to reach out to both Harris and Trump campaigns. A GSA spokesperson has indicated that the agency will send an official communication offering support to both teams. For Harris’s team to access office space and administrative resources in Washington, D.C., they would need to formally accept the offer and sign a memorandum of understanding. Federal law mandates that these agreements be finalized by September 1.
On the other side, former President Trump’s transition team will be led by Linda McMahon, who previously served as the head of the Small Business Administration and is married to WWE co-founder Vince McMahon. Additionally, Howard Lutnick, CEO of Cantor Fitzgerald, will also assist in Trump’s transition efforts.
Abraham is expected to refrain from engaging in policy formulation or personnel decisions until after the election results are finalized.
