WASHINGTON: As President-elect Donald Trump begins to set the course for his second term, he has appointed his Chief of Staff, the first major role in his new administration. More key positions will be announced soon, according to his team.
Jason Miller, a senior Trump advisor, told Fox Business, “Some familiar faces will return, but we’ll also bring in new additions.” Linda McMahon, former CEO of WWE, and Howard Lutnick, founder of Cantor Fitzgerald, are leading the transition.
Here’s a look at some Trump allies who could secure high-profile roles:
Chief of Staff:
Trump made his first big appointment by naming Susie Wiles, his campaign manager, to the Chief of Staff position. Wiles enjoys broad support from the Trump team and even joined him on stage during his victory speech.
“Susie is tough, strategic, and universally respected,” Trump said. Wiles, a Florida native, will make history as the first woman to hold this position.
Attorney General:
The Attorney General will play a critical role in Trump’s ongoing legal battles and his plans for mass deportations. Republican Senators Mike Lee and Eric Schmitt, along with former National Intelligence Director John Ratcliffe, are reportedly under consideration.
Secretary of State:
The next Secretary of State will have a significant task in shaping U.S. foreign policy and possibly altering international alliances. Ric Grenell, former ambassador to Germany and acting director of national intelligence, is a strong contender.
Grenell has a reputation for his straightforward approach to diplomacy. “If you want to avoid war, you need a tough Secretary of State,” he said on a podcast earlier this year.
Florida Senator Marco Rubio, closely aligned with Trump, is also mentioned as a possible pick.
Defense Secretary & CIA Director:
The selection for these two key positions will attract attention from U.S. allies abroad. Kash Patel, a former Trump administration official, and Texas Senator John Ratcliffe are being considered for CIA Director. Arkansas Senator Tom Cotton, who has advocated for military action against domestic protests, has ruled himself out for the Defense Secretary role.
Treasury Secretary:
Billionaire hedge fund manager Scott Bessent, a longtime advisor to Trump, is seen as a top candidate for Treasury Secretary. He would play a central role in advancing Trump’s economic agenda, including tax cuts, deregulation, and protectionist trade policies.
John Paulson, another hedge fund manager with ties to Trump, is also a contender for a key economic role.
Department of Government Efficiency (“DOGE”):
Elon Musk, Tesla CEO and a staunch Trump supporter, is reportedly being considered to lead a new “Department of Government Efficiency.” This department would aim to cut $2 trillion from the federal budget, though the details remain unclear. Musk’s reputation for a no-nonsense approach to business suggests he could bring sweeping changes to Washington.
Other Possible Appointments:
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a prominent vaccine skeptic and nephew of President John F. Kennedy, is expected to take on a significant role. Trump has hinted that Kennedy could drive major public health policy changes.
Other possible appointees include former Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard, who recently joined the Republican Party, and former Fox News host Tucker Carlson, who could also be eyeing a position in the new administration.