Former President Donald Trump has released a controversial list of individuals he claims will not be allowed to serve in his potential second administration.

Shared on his Truth Social platform, the list included prominent conservative figures with whom Trump has had public disputes, sparking criticism that it constitutes a “blacklist” and a push for complete loyalty among government personnel.

In his post, Trump announced that his team had already secured over 1,000 personnel to fill positions in his future administration.

“They are outstanding in every way, and you will see the fruits of their labor over the coming years. We will MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN, and it will happen very quickly!” Trump wrote.

However, the former president cautioned against endorsing candidates affiliated with certain individuals he has criticized in the past.

Among the names listed were former National Security Adviser John Bolton, whom Trump referred to as “Dumb as a Rock,” former Vice President Mike Pence, and former House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-Wis.).

Trump also excluded what he described as individuals suffering from “Trump Derangement Syndrome,” a term he has frequently used to dismiss his critics.

“Thank you for your attention to this matter!” he concluded.

Trump continues to demonstrate he isn’t looking to hire competent people from a broad spectrum of Republicans, but purely Trump loyalists who will celebrate his lies and lick his boots without shame. pic.twitter.com/FbelP9Mu6u

— PatriotTakes 🇺🇸 (@patriottakes) January 16, 2025

Critics were quick to label the list as an attempt to stifle dissent and ensure unwavering loyalty from those in government positions.

They argue that such an approach undermines the independence and professionalism of the federal workforce.

Adding to the controversy, The Associated Press reported earlier this week that officials in Trump’s team have been scrutinizing career civil servants at the National Security Council.

These screenings reportedly involved inquiries into the employees’ political affiliations and campaign donations, raising concerns about partisan bias in staffing decisions.

Trump’s announcement and the alleged political vetting echo tactics used during his first administration, where loyalty was often a key factor in personnel decisions.

This approach has drawn criticism from both sides of the political aisle, with detractors arguing it could further politicize the federal government.

As Trump prepares for a potential return to the White House, the post has reignited debates about the balance between loyalty and expertise in government service.

The list, which some have characterized as punitive, underscores the challenges of reconciling Trump’s leadership style with broader expectations of impartial governance.