As we await the Inauguration of our President Elect Donald Trump, we watch for rumors and then negotiations of those who will join his senior leadership team in the new Administration. From my experience in state government transitions, I found that there can be troubling and even very dangerous situations to watch. Here are some:

1. Confusion. As pointed out in the Wall Street Journal, Donald Trump's first appointments to the top staff positions have very different reputations and perspectives, which could send a confusing message to the staff, our allies and enemies. Also, Trump's campaign staff will assume they have a similar role in his new Administration, although in many cases, that role has not been confirmed. The result may well be conflicts between the campaign staff and transition staff. Look for high energy young professionals clashing over issues that are very complex and require careful attention to 'reboot' our mega sized government. Mistakes at the highest level of our government in the early days of a term can be very serious, especially with what appears to be 'management by a committee.'

2. Attacks. Foreign governments and individuals that have not supported our Country have often tested the resolve of a new Administration. We can all recall of course 9-11 at the start of the Administration of President Bush II. But even smaller conflicts like abandoning or distorting previous commitments could very well occur to test President Elect Trump. It is important that the old and new President maintain an open communication channel during the transition to avoid exploitation by our enemies.

3. Inexperience. Since Trump has never served in office, he will probably test the history and traditions of governing in the Executive Office. He certainly enters the oval office with the least knowledge of the complexities of Washington in recent memory. It is expected that he will overcome that weakness by selecting seasoned and experienced professionals from Washington to serve him.. That in turn will anger a part of his base, who want to 'drain the Washington swamp,' not add to it. This is typically when the Congressional leaders of the other Party try to challenge the new Administration.

4. Secrecy. Not all the vigilance should be directed at the incoming President. As I have mentioned in other Commentary, the outgoing President retains some extraordinary powers to grant pardons and issue Executive Orders. Some of his decisions can be overturned as Trump takes office, others cannot. Most can recall the controversial secret pardon of fugitive Marc Rich by President Bill Clinton at the end of his Presidency. The Congress can play their important oversight role here as well to protect the country's best interests.

The next several months will be a time of vigilance for all of us with our new government.