The Washington Post, April 6, 2018: It’s official: Steven Mnuchin is greatest sycophant in Cabinet history
Mnuchin remains in the president’s good graces despite policy gaffes and embarrassing stories about personal extravagance.
This is the key to survival in the administration — not policy chops, political finesse or ethical behavior. Capacity to flatter the boss invariably tops ability. With few exceptions, Trump has tolerated unseemly entitlement — government jets, lavish office furnishings, help for family members, missing financial disclosures — from those who are obsequious.
Six months ago, Lawrence H. Summers, a former treasury secretary, said “Mnuchin may be the greatest sycophant in Cabinet history.” There is no longer need for a qualifier.
