Trump’s New Cabinet: Key Picks and Potential Challenges
President-elect Donald Trump is racing to finalize his administration ahead of the January 20, 2025, inauguration. The focus is on selecting key cabinet members, which traditionally include the vice president and leaders of 15 major departments like State, Defense, and Treasury.
First Female Chief of Staff Named
Susie Wiles has made history as Trump’s first female White House Chief of Staff. As for other roles, Trump has released few details, with speculation building around who will join his new team.
Familiar Faces from Trump’s First Term
Many former Trump officials are in the mix, despite some distancing themselves post-2020. Notable possibilities include:
- Robert Lighthizer: Possible Treasury Secretary.
- Mike Pompeo: Potential Defense Secretary or intelligence role.
- John Ratcliffe: Eyeing Attorney General or an intelligence post.
- Linda McMahon: Rumored for Commerce Secretary.
- Richard Grenell: Could return as Secretary of State or National Security Advisor.
- Stephen Miller: May face Senate challenges for any role.
- Robert O’Brien: Considered for State or national security.
Congressional Allies Under Review
Current and former lawmakers are also in contention:
- Senator Mike Lee: A strong candidate for Attorney General.
- Senator Bill Hagerty: Under consideration for trade or diplomatic roles.
- Senator Marco Rubio: Potential Secretary of State.
- Senator Tim Scott: Possible HUD Secretary.
- Senator Tom Cotton and Rep. Mike Waltz: Both could head the Pentagon.
- Rep. Mark Green: Leading contender for Homeland Security.
- Rep. Elise Stefanik: Discussed as a potential U.N. ambassador.
Business Leaders and Economic Influence
Key business figures may shape Trump’s economic policy:
- Elon Musk: Supported Trump but unlikely for an official role due to conflicts of interest.
- John Paulson: Considered for Treasury Secretary.
- Howard Lutnick: Possible economic advisor.
- Jamie Dimon: Once a top pick for Treasury, but now reportedly uninterested.
RFK Jr.’s Role in Health Policy
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who endorsed Trump, may lead the Department of Health and Human Services or Agriculture. However, his controversial views on vaccines could complicate Senate approval.
