Trump’s cabinet contenders take shape ahead of key appointments

President-elect Donald Trump has begun assembling his new administration, appointing his election campaign chief Susie Wiles as his chief of staff on Thursday. This marks Trump’s first official pick since winning the presidency, with additional roles expected to be filled in the coming days and weeks.

Wiles, a seasoned political strategist and Florida native, played a pivotal role in Trump’s 2024 campaign. Her appointment as chief of staff had been widely anticipated, given her strong rapport within the Trump team. During his victory speech early Wednesday, Trump invited Wiles on stage, signaling her importance in his inner circle.

“Susie is tough, smart, innovative, and is universally admired and respected,” Trump said, praising the 67-year-old strategist, who will be the first woman to serve in the high-profile position of chief of staff.

Key cabinet contenders emerge

As Trump’s team moves quickly to form the next administration, speculation surrounds several high-stakes cabinet positions. According to senior aide Jason Miller, the forthcoming appointments will include a mix of returning figures from Trump’s first term and fresh faces.

Trump’s hardline stance on immigration and ongoing legal challenges make the selection for attorney general crucial. Republican Senators Mike Lee, Eric Schmitt, and John Ratcliffe, Trump’s former director of national intelligence, are reportedly under consideration, as per The Washington Post.

The choice of the next U.S. Secretary of State is also highly anticipated, given the incoming administration’s “America First” foreign policy agenda. Ric Grenell, former ambassador to Germany and acting director of national intelligence, is a top contender. Known for his combative style, Grenell recently emphasized a tough diplomatic approach, stating, “If you want to avoid war, you better have a son of a bitch as the secretary of state,” during a podcast earlier this year. Florida Senator Marco Rubio, who was previously considered for Trump’s vice-presidential slot, is also a potential candidate for the role.

Defense and intelligence picks

Trump’s selections for defense secretary and CIA director will be closely monitored by America’s allies. Kash Patel, known for his book criticizing the “deep state,” is rumored to be in the running for CIA chief. Meanwhile, ultra-conservative Senator John Ratcliffe is also being discussed for top intelligence posts. Arkansas Senator Tom Cotton, a staunch Trump ally, has reportedly ruled himself out as defense secretary, according to Axios.

Treasury Secretary: For the Treasury, hedge fund managers Scott Bessent and John Paulson are leading contenders. Both are key financial supporters and advisors to Trump, who has signaled a pro-business agenda focused on reducing taxes and deregulation.

Musk tapped for new role in government efficiency

In a surprising move, Trump surrogate and Tesla CEO Elon Musk is expected to lead a newly created “Department of Government Efficiency.” The ambitious initiative aims to slash $2 trillion from the federal budget, though specifics on how these cuts would be achieved remain unclear. Musk has promised to bring his “hardcore” management style to Washington, assuring “fair and humane” processes for any federal workforce reductions.

Other notable figures

Among other figures who may play key roles in Trump’s administration are Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who recently endorsed Trump after dropping his own presidential bid. Kennedy, known for his controversial views on vaccines, has been promised significant responsibilities, potentially in the realm of health policy. Former Democratic Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard, who has since switched to the Republican Party, and ex-Fox News host Tucker Carlson are also rumored to be in line for positions.

Trump’s family members, notably Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner, have reportedly stepped back from politics, focusing on family and business ventures. However, Trump’s previous administration saw significant involvement from his family, leaving the door open for possible advisory roles.

The rapid developments come as Trump’s team prepares for a second term in the White House, signaling a blend of loyalty and assertiveness in both domestic and foreign policy spheres. Further appointments are expected in the days ahead, which could provide clearer insight into the direction of Trump’s governance this time around.