Speculation grows over potential Cabinet picks for Trump’s new administration

Following Donald Trump‘s victory in the U.S. presidential election, speculation has begun over individuals who may be selected for key positions in his new cabinet.

Expected to take office on Jan. 20, 2025, Trump’s potential cabinet lineup has drawn public and media interest, particularly for prominent roles such as secretary of state, defense secretary, treasury secretary and attorney general.

Senate confirmation required for over 1,200 positions

Among the more than 4,000 positions to be appointed, around 1,200 require Senate confirmation.

In Trump’s previous administration, confirmations were often delayed due to the then-Democratic majority in the Senate. However, with Republicans now holding a majority, Trump’s nominations are expected to proceed more swiftly through the Senate confirmation process.

Secretary of State candidates include Pompeo and Rubio

Reports from American media suggest several prominent figures for the secretary of state position. Among them is Mike Pompeo, who served as Trump’s secretary of state during his first term and has remained a close ally.

Florida Sen. Marco Rubio, known for his strong stances on Russia, Iran, and China, has also been mentioned as a possible pick, alongside Arkansas Sen. Tom Cotton, former National Security Advisor Robert O’Brien, former U.S. Ambassador to Germany Ric Grenell, and Tennessee Sen. Bill Hagerty.

Defense Secretary contenders feature Pompeo, Cotton and Waltz

For the defense secretary role, Pompeo and Cotton are reportedly under consideration, along with Florida Representative Mike Waltz, a former “Green Beret” with experience on the House Armed Services, Foreign Affairs and Intelligence Committees.

Waltz has previously advised defense secretaries and served in the White House during Dick Cheney’s vice presidency.

Treasury Secretary nominees include Lutnick and Lighthizer

Names floated for the treasury secretary role include prominent investors and former Trump administration officials. Howard Lutnick, who led Trump’s transition team, has been cited as a possible candidate, as has Robert Lighthizer, who served as the U.S. trade representative.

Other potential candidates include former SEC Chairman Jay Clayton, National Economic Council alum Larry Kudlow, and billionaire investor John Paulson.

Other key roles and possible nominees

Kevin McCarthy, former speaker of the House, is considered a leading contender for Trump’s chief of staff. Trump campaign manager Susie Wiles and former White House advisor Brooke Rollins are also reportedly in consideration.

Additionally, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., who withdrew from the presidential race to support Trump, could potentially join the administration as health secretary or advisor, while Utah Sen. Mike Lee has been mentioned for attorney general.

Vivek Ramaswamy, who endorsed Trump after stepping out of the race, is under consideration for the role of secretary of homeland security.

Energy and Interior Department roles and advisors

North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum is reportedly being considered for energy or interior secretary, and entrepreneur Elon Musk, who backed Trump’s campaign, is expected to take on an advisory role.