A majority of Americans approve of Donald Trump’s presidential transition, with opinions divided on his cabinet picks, according to a CBS/YouGov poll conducted from Nov. 19-22.

While the transition process has garnered significant public approval, some of Trump’s cabinet nominations have sparked controversy and divided opinions, Forbes reported.

The poll, which surveyed 2,232 adults with a margin of error of ±2.3 percentage points, found that 59% of respondents were satisfied with Trump’s handling of the transition. However, 41% expressed disapproval. A notable 75% of those polled believe the Senate should conduct confirmation hearings for the nominees rather than relying on recess appointments.

Matt Gaetz’s Nomination Faces Backlash

Among the nominees, Matt Gaetz tapped for Attorney General, faced the harshest criticism. Only 30% of respondents considered him a good choice, while 38% opposed his nomination. The remaining 32% had no opinion.

Gaetz withdrew from consideration, citing his belief that his presence was a distraction for the incoming administration. Shortly afterward, he resigned from Congress following a sexual misconduct scandal that had drawn widespread public and media scrutiny.

To replace Gaetz, Trump announced Pam Bondi as his new pick for Attorney General. Bondi, who previously served as Florida’s Attorney General and participated in Trump’s first impeachment defense team, brings experience but faces her own share of controversy.

RFK Jr. Earns Strong Support

In contrast to Gaetz, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. emerged as a popular choice for Health and Human Services Secretary. The poll revealed that 47% of Americans supported Kennedy’s nomination, while 34% opposed it, and 19% were unsure.

Kennedy’s nomination stands out as the most positively received among Trump’s picks. Known for his advocacy on health-related issues, his potential appointment has garnered attention as a focal point of the transition.

Mixed Reactions To Other Cabinet Picks

Other nominees received more mixed reactions. Marco Rubio’s selection as Secretary of State earned support from 44% of respondents, with 36% opposing him. Meanwhile, Pete Hegseth, chosen for Defense Secretary, saw less favorable feedback. Just 33% supported Hegseth, 28% opposed him, and 39% were unsure. Hegseth’s past allegations of sexual misconduct, which he has denied, may have influenced public opinion.

Similarly, Tulsi Gabbard, nominated as Director of National Intelligence, drew moderate approval. She was viewed favorably by 36% of respondents, with fewer individuals expressing outright opposition.

Additional Cabinet Announcements

Trump also announced Brooke Rollins as his pick for Agriculture Secretary on Nov. 23. Rollins, a longtime advocate for conservative policies, has worked closely with Trump in the past. On Nov. 22, Scott Bessent was named Treasury Secretary. Both announcements came amid broader efforts to fill key administration roles ahead of Inauguration Day.

The transition process has been marked by a mix of bold choices and controversies. While Kennedy’s nomination highlights areas of strong public support, others like Gaetz and Hegseth have brought challenges to the approval process.

Public Opinion On Trump’s Policies

Beyond the nominees, the poll also examined public opinion on Trump’s proposed policies. His plans for mass deportations received 57% approval, indicating robust support for the initiative. Additionally, 52% of respondents backed his proposed tariffs on imports, including a 10% general tariff and a 60% tariff on Chinese goods.

However, experts have warned that such tariffs could raise consumer prices, a concern dismissed by most Trump voters who believe the measures will not significantly impact costs.

Looking Ahead To Confirmation Hearings

As Trump’s team prepares for the next phase of the transition, public attention will turn to Senate confirmation hearings. With 75% of Americans supporting the process, these hearings are likely to become critical moments for nominees to address both their qualifications and controversies.

Trump’s presidential transition has seen broad approval, but the mixed reactions to his cabinet picks underscore the challenges ahead. While figures like RFK Jr. bring optimism, others will need to navigate significant opposition to secure confirmation.