President-elect Donald Trump has made several early picks for his cabinet and key administration positions following his election victory. These choices reflect his policy priorities, particularly on defense, intelligence, health, trade, and immigration. Here’s a closer look at some of the leading names for these crucial roles:
Marco Rubio – Secretary of State
Trump has chosen U.S. Senator Marco Rubio from Florida to be his secretary of state. At 53, Rubio, a former presidential candidate, has taken a tough stance on foreign policy issues like China, Iran, and Cuba. Although his views have softened over time, Rubio is known for advocating a stronger U.S. geopolitical presence. He could become the first Latino to hold this prestigious position.
Matt Gaetz – Attorney General
Trump announced that U.S. Representative Matt Gaetz from Florida would be his pick for attorney general. Gaetz has been a strong advocate for reforming the U.S. justice system, particularly in addressing what Trump perceives as political weaponization. Gaetz's selection aligns with Trump’s goal to implement mass deportations and pardon the individuals involved in the January 6th Capitol riot.
Tulsi Gabbard – Director of National Intelligence
Trump has named Tulsi Gabbard, a former Democratic representative, as his nominee for director of national intelligence. Gabbard, who became an independent in 2022, has criticized the Biden administration and lacks direct intelligence experience. However, if confirmed, she would lead the U.S. intelligence community.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. – Health and Human Services Secretary
Kennedy, an environmental activist and vaccine critic, has been selected as health and human services secretary. He has proposed restructuring the Food and Drug Administration and making significant changes to the National Institutes of Health. Kennedy’s controversial views on vaccines have raised concerns, but he brings a strong environmental perspective to his new role.
Pete Hegseth – Defense Secretary
Trump has picked Pete Hegseth, a Fox News commentator and military veteran, as his defense secretary. Known for his disdain toward "woke" military policies, Hegseth could push for significant changes in the U.S. military, including reversing progressive diversity initiatives within the armed forces.
Lee Zeldin – EPA Administrator
Former Congressman Lee Zeldin has been appointed to head the Environmental Protection Agency. A staunch Trump ally, Zeldin has promised to push for energy policies that promote oil and gas production while rolling back environmental regulations.
Mike Waltz – National Security Adviser
Trump has tapped Mike Waltz, a Republican U.S. Representative and retired Green Beret, to serve as national security adviser. Waltz is known for his tough stance on China and his support for military readiness in the Asia-Pacific region.
Susie Wiles – Chief of Staff
Susie Wiles, a key figure in Trump’s campaign, will serve as White House chief of staff. Wiles is credited with running a disciplined campaign and is expected to bring much-needed organization to the administration.
Tom Homan – Border Czar
Homan, former director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, will oversee Trump’s immigration policies. His priority will be deporting individuals illegally residing in the U.S. who are considered security threats.
Elise Stefanik – UN Ambassador
Trump has chosen Elise Stefanik, a Republican congresswoman from New York, to be his ambassador to the United Nations. Stefanik has been a strong supporter of Trump, particularly in opposing allegations of election fraud.
Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy – Heads of the Department of Government Efficiency
Tech entrepreneur Elon Musk and former presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy will co-lead the newly created Department of Government Efficiency. This department will focus on cutting bureaucratic waste, slashing regulations, and improving federal agency performance.
Kristi Noem – Homeland Security Secretary
South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem is Trump's pick for homeland security secretary. Noem, who gained national attention for her handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, will oversee the Department of Homeland Security, which manages border protection and disaster response.
Doug Burgum – Interior Secretary and Energy Czar
North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum will serve as interior secretary and energy czar. He has been a vocal advocate for increasing U.S. oil and gas production and streamlining federal land management.
John Ratcliffe – CIA Director
Former Director of National Intelligence John Ratcliffe is set to take over the CIA. Known for his loyalty to Trump, Ratcliffe will be responsible for overseeing U.S. intelligence operations.
Kevin Warsh, Marc Rowan, Bill Hagerty, Scott Bessent, Robert Lighthizer, and Howard Lutnick – Treasury Secretary Candidates
Trump is considering a variety of candidates for treasury secretary, including former investment banker Kevin Warsh, Apollo Global Management CEO Marc Rowan, Senator Bill Hagerty, hedge fund manager Scott Bessent, and former U.S. trade representative Robert Lighthizer.
Linda McMahon – Commerce Secretary
Linda McMahon, a professional wrestling magnate and former Small Business Administration head, is seen as a frontrunner for the role of commerce secretary. McMahon has been a long-time supporter of Trump and will bring her experience in business and politics to the department.
Kash Patel – Potential National Security Posts
Kash Patel, a former Trump administration official, is also in consideration for a high-ranking national security position. Known for his staunch loyalty to Trump, Patel is seen as a controversial figure within the national security establishment.
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