What track record does Chao have that makes you think she’s a RINO? I don’t necessarily disagree with you, but she’s never held elected office and has worked for some very conservative think tanks in D.C.
I think many here on FR are still in a foxhole. Chao was selected for transportation secretary - not exactly the department that creates fiery debate around here. She appears to have great credentials.
On the topic of her spouse, I have never praised him, but it is worth mentioning again that Mitch deserves a huge amount of credit and even cheers for holding the line on Scalia’s successor even if we don’t like or trust him. One cannot overestimate the importance of that seat on the Supreme court that will now be filled by Trump. McConnell just did the most conservative thing I have seen in his career and he took a beating for it. Trump needs to work with him so perhaps this is a two-fer.
I expect Transportation (infrastructure) to be an area where Trump is very hands on given his prior statements so he is obviously comfortable with her. I will save my powder and keyboard angst for something more substantial.