Donald J. Trump has begun a campaign to disrupt and shatter the institutions of Washington, shocking the political establishment. His early transition moves are a stress test for the system, as he aims to rewrite the balance of power and put loyalists in important government positions. Trump's nominations have been provocative and controversial, causing concern among Republicans and challenging the foundations of the American system. While some assume that Trump's contentious nominees are distractions, others argue that he is amplifying populist resentment and tearing down the system. Despite his modest margins of victory, Trump has exhibited dominance within his own party and is testing the Senate's willingness to surrender power to him through recess appointments.