Statement on reports of background checks agreement between transition, Justice Department

The nonpartisan, nonprofit Partnership for Public Service today released the following statement from President and CEO Max Stier on news reports that the Trump transition team has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Justice Department to allow the agency to conduct background checks on nominees and appointees:

Reaching this agreement with the Justice Department today is another important milestone for the transition team and more welcome news after the White House agreement signed last week. The formal background check process for nominees, appointees and others who need access to sensitive information is critical for the president-elect’s team to effectively prepare to take the reins of government and mitigate national security risk. Ensuring those taking on positions of public trust are properly vetted is vitally important.

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