Rift among Trump transition team revealed by top aid comment

A top aid to U.S. President-elect Donald Trump raised eyebrows among other Trump advisors, revealing a deep divide within the team as crucial spots in the incoming cabinet are yet to be filled.

Trump was "furious" over his former campaign manager Kellyanne Conway's remarks on Sunday that questioned state secretary contender Mitt Romney's loyalty, MSNBC reported Monday.

The network also quoted two other top aides to Trump as saying they were "baffled" over Conway's action.

"I'm all for party unity, but I'm not sure we have to pay for that with the secretary of state position," Conway reportedly told CNN.

She defended her comments later by tweeting that she had voiced her concern directly to the president-elect, who has her "respect, loyalty."

Romney's nomination as the top U.S. diplomat was strongly opposed by some Trump supporters, as the former governor of Massachusetts had been openly critical of Trump during the election cycle.

Proponents of Romney say having him on the team would be seen as a sign that Trump is willing to mend fences with former adversaries.

Other high profile posts in the next administration that remain vacant include the Pentagon chief, for which retired general James Mattis is said to be a top contender. Enditem