President-elect Donald Trump has announced a series of high-profile cabinet picks, signaling his intention to appoint some of his staunchest supporters and loyalists to key roles in his administration. Here’s a look at the main appointments:
Department of Government Efficiency: Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy will lead this new department aimed at improving government efficiency, focusing on cuts to spending and regulations. Musk, the wealthiest person globally, has been a vocal Trump supporter and has previously suggested the creation of this department.
Secretary of Defense: Pete Hegseth, a combat veteran and Fox News host, has been named the new Secretary of Defense. Hegseth, who served in Cuba, Afghanistan, and Iraq, is a well-known conservative voice and former CEO of Concerned Veterans for America.
CIA Director: John Ratcliffe, former Director of National Intelligence, will take on the role of CIA Director. Ratcliffe, a former Texas congressman, was a key intelligence adviser during Trump’s presidency and played a controversial role in releasing unverified Russian intelligence regarding the 2016 election.
White House Counsel: William Joseph McGinley, former White House cabinet secretary, will become Trump’s White House Counsel. McGinley, a seasoned GOP lawyer, played a significant role in Trump’s 2016 campaign.
Special Envoy to the Middle East: Steven Witkoff, a real estate investor and longtime Trump friend, has been appointed as Special Envoy to the Middle East. Witkoff, who was with Trump during an apparent assassination attempt, has been a key backer of the president.
United States Ambassador to Israel: Former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee, a strong Israel supporter, will serve as the envoy to Israel. Huckabee has been a vocal critic of the Biden administration’s policies toward Israel.
National Security Adviser: Rep. Mike Waltz, a former Green Beret, will be Trump’s National Security Adviser. Waltz has been outspoken on issues like China’s growing influence and NATO’s defense spending.
Homeland Security Secretary: South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem, a Trump ally, is set to take over the Department of Homeland Security, focusing on immigration and national security.
Secretary of State: Trump is likely to appoint Senator Marco Rubio, known for his hardline stance on foreign policy, particularly regarding China and Iran.
Environmental Protection Agency Administrator: Former Rep. Lee Zeldin will lead the EPA, focusing on deregulation while maintaining high environmental standards.
Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy: Stephen Miller, a former senior adviser to Trump, is expected to return to the White House in a key policy position, particularly on immigration.
Border Czar: Tom Homan, former ICE Director, has been appointed to oversee Trump’s aggressive immigration policies, including mass deportations.
United Nations Ambassador: Rep. Elise Stefanik, the GOP Conference Chair, will serve as Trump’s ambassador to the UN.
Chief of Staff: Susie Wiles, Trump’s campaign co-manager, will become the first woman to hold the Chief of Staff position.
Trump’s transition team, assisted by right-wing groups and billionaire backers, is actively working to finalize staffing and policy plans for the incoming administration. Musk, in particular, has been involved in shaping both personnel decisions and policy directions.
Trump Admin: Kristi Noem Selected as Next U.S. Homeland Security Secretary
John Ratcliffe Appointed as CIA Director by Trump
Trump Appoints Mike Waltz as National Security Advisor, Marco Rubio as Secretary of State