Why is there such an extended period of time between a Presidential election and when the President-elect takes office? It seems to me this time period allows for all kinds of shenanigans -- from shredding documents, pushing through judical appointments for the losing side, and having Senate leadership positions filled before new senators arrive to take their positions.
How did this practice of a large gap of time get started? Who started it? Is it an actual legal thing or just a convention?
there is much work to 'transition'. All of Trumps picks must be vetted....in ways that take time. In 2016 he invited Tulsi to talk on matters of Syria, and ISIS. After learning, he could take them out, via instructions to those in place. So much to do. Ten thousand must be hired...not personally by him, but those who will hire them. Again, much more to do than you realize.