While presidential campaigns focus on winning the election, the candidates must simultaneously set up separate transition operations to prepare for governing in the event of victory. Serious transition planning must begin well in advance of the November election on issues ranging from policy and political appointments to the work of agencies and the management of the government. Candidates must not only be ready to fulfill campaign promises but be fully prepared on Inauguration Day to respond at a moment’s notice to a domestic or international crisis.
WHAT WE’RE DOING
The Center supports the smooth and effective transfer of power by providing critical assistance for candidates on how to organize and execute a successful presidential transition. We offer guidance on the selection of presidential appointees and preparing them to lead; insights on gathering critical information on the work of federal agencies; confidential access to former transition leaders and to experts on a wide range of issues needed to prepare a new president assuming the reins of power.
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RESOURCES
2020 Presidential Transition Guide
The Partnership’s comprehensive guide on the activities required during the transition. This updated guide, produced in collaboration with the Boston Consulting Group, features detailed outlines of transition best practices, historical materials from past transitions, and recommendations for a successful presidential transition to a new or second-term administration.
Transition Overview from General Services Administration
The Transition Overview, published by the General Services Administration, provides a synopsis of the 2016 presidential transition process outlining major transition activities and governance structure.
Presidential Transition Act Summary
In passing the Presidential Transition Act of 1963, Congress explained: “Any disruption occasioned by the transfer of the executive power could produce results detrimental to the safety and well-being of the United States and its people.” To promote the orderly transfer of power, Congress established a framework for the federal government to prepare for a transition from one president to another.
It is not too early to get ready for the White House
Max Stier, president and chief executive of the Partnership for Public Service, discusses the 2016 launch of the Center for Presidential Transition, providing information that is still relevant today.
The most important takeover of any organization in history
On November 8, 2016, a presidential race will finally end. The message to both candidates remains pretty much the same: The success of your presidency depends on how you plan for it.
Position Descriptions for Senate Confirmed Appointments
Over 400 sample job descriptions, broken out by agency and by title, for senior positions that are Senate-confirmed presidential appointments.
