As President-elect Donald Trump prepares to head back to the White House for his second term in January, he’s begun sharing his picks for important roles in his administration. These appointments are super important for setting the tone of his presidency. Let’s take a light-hearted look at who’s in the lineup, who’s stepping aside, and who might still be joining the team, sorted from the most pivotal positions to the less critical ones!
Who has joined Trump’s team so far?
Confirmed Appointments
Let’s look at the cabinet positions President Donald Trump has announced, along with some of the names being considered for the top jobs still open. We’ll start with the cabinet roles, which need to get the green light from the US Senate. If four Republican senators and all the Democrats aren’t on board with a nomination, then it won’t go through.
Pam Bondi – Attorney General
After Matt Gaetz withdrew amid allegations of misconduct, Pam Bondi stepped in as Trump’s pick for Attorney General. Bondi, former Florida Attorney General, is a longtime Trump ally and was part of his defense team during the first impeachment trial. Trump praises her tough stance on violent criminals and her dedication to making the streets safer for families.
Mike Huckabee – Ambassador to Israel
Trump has nominated Mike Huckabee, former Arkansas governor, as Ambassador to Israel. Huckabee is a strong defender of Israel and is expected to foster peace in the region. His close ties to Trump and dedication to Israel make him a fitting choice for this crucial diplomatic role.
Marco Rubio – Secretary of State
Senator Marco Rubio of Florida is Trump’s choice for Secretary of State. Rubio is a strong advocate for America’s interests abroad and has significant experience in foreign policy. If confirmed, he would be the first Latino to serve as America’s top diplomat, strengthening the administration’s global stance.
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Pete Hegseth – Defense Secretary
Pete Hegseth, a Fox News host and army veteran, has been nominated as Defense Secretary. Hegseth brings military experience and a strong advocacy for veterans, aligning with Trump’s priorities for a robust defense department.
Sean Duffy – Transportation Secretary
Former Congressman and Fox Business co-host Sean Duffy has been picked to oversee Transportation. Trump emphasized Duffy’s commitment to rebuilding America’s infrastructure, including highways, tunnels, bridges, and airports, managing a department with a $110 billion budget.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. – Health and Human Services Secretary
In a surprising move, Trump has chosen Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a Kennedy family member, to lead Health and Human Services. Kennedy is expected to focus on reducing harmful chemicals and promoting alternative health measures, aligning with Trump’s vision for healthcare reform.
Doug Burgum – Interior Secretary
Doug Burgum, Governor of North Dakota, has been selected to lead the Department of the Interior. Trump highlighted Burgum’s experience in energy policy and his support for his administration’s initiatives during a gala at Mar-a-Lago.
Brendan Carr – FCC Chair
Brendan Carr will head the Federal Communications Commission. Known for his criticism of big tech and the Biden administration’s telecom policies, Carr aims to restore “free speech rights for everyday Americans,” aligning with Trump’s focus on reducing regulatory hurdles.
Doug Collins – Veterans Affairs Secretary
Former Georgia Congressman Doug Collins is nominated to lead the Veterans Affairs Department. A veteran himself, Collins is known for his defense of Trump during the impeachment trial and his commitment to supporting veterans.
Linda McMahon – Education Secretary
Linda McMahon, co-chair of Trump’s transition team and former WWE CEO, is nominated for Education Secretary. McMahon supports charter schools and school choice, aligning with Trump’s education reforms. Although relatively unknown in education circles, her business background brings a unique perspective to the role.
Scott Bessent – Treasury Secretary
Scott Bessent, a key economic adviser and hedge fund manager, has been nominated for Treasury Secretary. Bessent is known for strongly supporting Trump’s trade policies, especially tariffs. Trump believes Bessent will help usher in a “new golden age for the United States.”
Lee Zeldin – EPA Administrator
Former New York Congressman Lee Zeldin is nominated to lead the Environmental Protection Agency. Zeldin plans to reduce regulations and support energy dominance, focusing on restoring American energy leadership and revitalizing the auto industry.
Chris Wright – Energy Secretary
An oil and gas executive, Chris Wright is Trump’s pick for Energy Secretary. Wright supports expanding fossil fuel production and denies the climate crisis, aligning with Trump’s energy policies aimed at maximizing oil and gas output.
Tulsi Gabbard – Director of National Intelligence
Tulsi Gabbard, a former Democratic congresswoman and Iraq war veteran who endorsed Trump in 2024 has been nominated to lead national intelligence. Trump commends her fight for American freedoms, expecting her to strengthen the nation’s intelligence capabilities.
John Ratcliffe – CIA Director
John Ratcliffe, a loyal Trump supporter and former director of national intelligence, is nominated to head the CIA. Ratcliffe has strong ties to Trump and experience in intelligence matters, positioning him as a key figure in national security.
Karoline Leavitt – White House Press Secretary
Karoline Leavitt, a young and energetic member of Trump’s team, has been named Press Secretary. Leavitt is known for her strong communication skills and proximity to Trump’s campaign efforts, making her a vital spokesperson for the administration.
Steven Cheung – Communications Director
Steven Cheung, Trump’s primary spokesperson during the re-election campaign, is now Communications Director. Cheung brings experience from his time with the UFC and close ties to Trump’s media strategy, ensuring effective communication with the public.
Sergio Gor – Assistant to the President
Sergio Gor, a top ally from the Right for America Super PAC, will assist Trump in managing presidential personnel. His close ties with Trump make him a trusted choice for this important role.
Stephen Miller – Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy
Stephen Miller, an immigration hardliner and key Trump adviser, will take on a larger role in the administration. Miller is known for his work on immigration policies and the “America First” agenda, playing a crucial part in shaping the administration’s policies.
Susie Wiles – Chief of Staff
Trump’s campaign manager, Susie Wiles, has been named White House Chief of Staff. As the first woman to hold this influential role, Wiles is expected to bring organization and discipline to the administration, helping to streamline operations and support Trump’s agenda.
Will Scharf – White House Staff Secretary
Will Scharf, one of Trump’s attorneys, will serve as White House Staff Secretary. Scharf’s legal background and close relationship with Trump make him a key player in managing White House staff and communications.
Steven Witkoff – Middle East Envoy
Steven Witkoff, a real estate executive and Trump ally, is nominated as Middle East Envoy. Witkoff aims to promote peace and stability in the region, leveraging his longstanding ties with Trump and experience in international relations.
Alex Wong – Deputy National Security Adviser
Alex Wong, who played a role in Trump’s North Korea summit, is set to become Deputy National Security Adviser. Wong will continue to support Trump’s foreign policy goals, focusing on national security and international diplomacy.
Elise Stefanik – UN Ambassador
Elise Stefanik, a New York Representative, is nominated to be the ambassador to the UN. A Trump loyalist and the highest-ranking woman in the Republican conference, Stefanik is expected to advance Trump’s interests on the global stage.
Russ Vought – Office of Management and Budget Chief
Russ Vought, former OMB chief, is nominated to lead the Office of Management and Budget again. Vought plays a major role in setting budget priorities and aligning them with Trump’s economic goals and fiscal policies.
Potential Future Picks
Ben Carson – HUD Secretary
Ben Carson, a retired neurosurgeon and former Housing Secretary, is a possible Housing and Urban Development nominee. Carson’s strong stance on abortion and healthcare could influence his potential role, aligning with Trump’s conservative policies.
Richard Grenell – Special Envoy for Russia-Ukraine
Richard Grenell, a former ambassador and Trump adviser, may take on a top role in foreign policy. Grenell’s aggressive policies on Russia and Ukraine make him a strong candidate for this important position.
Robert Lighthizer – Trade or Commerce Secretary
Robert Lighthizer, Trump’s former trade representative, is a likely candidate for the position of Commerce Secretary. Lighthizer’s expertise in tariffs and trade wars with China aligns with Trump’s economic policies, potentially making him a key player in the administration’s trade strategies.
Out of the Running
Matt Gaetz – Attorney General
Matt Gaetz withdrew his nomination for Attorney General amid allegations of sexual misconduct. Gaetz remains a controversial figure within Trump’s circle, known for his far-right positions and provocative behavior.
Trump’s choices for his cabinet and White House reflect his intention to work closely with loyal supporters who believe in his vision. He’s bringing together a mix of seasoned politicians like Pam Bondi and Marco Rubio and some surprising picks like Elon Musk. It’s an interesting and strategic lineup that will influence the policies and priorities during Trump’s second term!
Stay tuned as we update you on the latest developments and final confirmations for Trump’s cabinet and key White House positions.
