I’ve worked side by side with RU devs who were both personable and damned competent. Never were their tech skills in doubt, and I retain quite a bit of respect for those individuals.
I’d not do the same today explicitly because of the political and compliance implications. It’s unfortunate, but necessary.
If memory serves, the first version of the administration used “acting” department heads with some regularity.
If they are “acting,” there isn’t a confirmation hearing because no one has yet been nominated to fill the role.