Story highlights Chertoff says he's "encouraged" by Trump's approach since the election

He says criticism of Jeff Sessions may be overrated

(CNN) As President-elect Donald Trump fills nearly 4,000 government positions for his presidency, including top White House and cabinet posts, former Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff spoke to CNN about the selection process and Trump's administration picks so far.

A vocal critic of Trump throughout the campaign, Chertoff began his interview Friday with Erin Burnett by congratulating the man that will soon become the nation's 45th commander in chief.

"I have to take my hat off to him, because he demonstrated an ability to read the mood of the American public that confounded all the data crunchers, and I think you have to give him some credit for that," said Chertoff, before couching his praise with a word or two of caution.

"It's still early and obviously he hasn't even started in office yet. But at least I'm encouraged that what we're hearing seems to be sober, disciplined and appropriate."

Fmr. US Sec. of Homeland Security Michael Chertoff: Trump has had a "measured and inclusive approach" since election https://t.co/776Zam7c6N — OutFrontCNN (@OutFrontCNN) November 19, 2016

As the topic turned to one of Trump's most recent and controversial selections -- retired Army Lt. Gen. Michael Flynn for the role of national security adviser -- Chertoff was hesitant to condemn the appointee based solely on opinions expressed 140 character bursts.

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