Kevin McCarthy, the former House speaker, has been the subject of speculation for months as a potential candidate for Donald Trump’s chief of staff. Although he has neither confirmed nor denied his interest, the buzz around his name has not been without its benefits. This situation exemplifies a common phenomenon in Washington, where being name-checked for high-level administration jobs can boost one’s standing and business prospects, even if the chance of actually getting the job is slim.
This strategic noncommittal posture is particularly prevalent in the leadup to a new administration. Lobbyists, business consultants, and others in the private sector seek to capitalize on their perceived proximity to power, leveraging any connections to the president’s inner circle to attract new business opportunities and grow their influence. It’s a quintessential part of the launch of a new administration, though few are willing to admit to employing this tactic.
While McCarthy is not lobbying, the speculation about his possible appointment to a powerful White House job is likely to bolster his new paid-speeches gig. The former House speaker has enlisted an agency to help him land speaking engagements, with clients including the American Hospital Association, the French bank BNP Paribas, and the snack industry trade association SNAC International.
The Benefits of Name-Checking
Although being named for an administration job may not guarantee the position, the mere mention can yield significant benefits. The appearance of being close to power can attract new business, with potential clients perceiving the person as a valuable asset in influencing policy-making.
Lobbyists and business consultants, in particular, often use these connections to sell their services to clients. Jeff Forbes, a political operative and founder of lobbying firm Forbes Tate Partners, notes that this practice is a common public relations strategy for those looking to grow their business.
Furthermore, if a colleague is selected for a prominent post in the administration, it elevates the lobbyist’s stock, presenting an inside connection to the White House that can be used to attract prospective clients.
The Risks Involved
Despite the potential benefits, this strategy can be risky, especially within Trump’s orbit. The president is notoriously hostile to those believed to have leaked their own names to the press. Such actions may be seen as putting personal ambitions before the president’s, a major faux pas in Trump’s book.
As one former campaign official put it, “People use [the] transition to gin up their profile knowing full well that they have no opportunity to join this transition.” Although this approach can be an effective marketing strategy, it does not necessarily reflect real influence or proximity to power.
McCarthy’s Situation
Despite the speculation around his name, a person close to McCarthy has suggested that the former Speaker is content with his new role outside of government. After his ousting as Speaker, his influence in Washington had significantly waned. However, his bond with the incoming president has reportedly been repaired, and the speculation around his potential appointment as chief of staff has offered him a renewed kind of relevancy.
By having his name in the running, even if just in speculation, McCarthy has managed to leverage the situation to his advantage. Whether he will secure the job or not remains to be seen, but the buzz around his name has undeniably given him a boost, demonstrating the power of being name-checked for high-level administration jobs.
