Trump selects Herschel Walker for a position as Ambassador within his Cabinet.

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Trump selects Herschel Walker for a position as Ambassador within his Cabinet.

President-elect Donald Trump designated former NFL star and Senate candidate Herschel Walker as his ambassador to the Bahamas on Tuesday night, marking yet another appointment in a series of new positions as Trump strengthens his administration.

Primary Details

Trump has appointed individuals for most Senate-approved cabinet-level jobs, including some unanticipated and controversial selections. He has also picked a chief of staff and a national security adviser - roles that do not necessitate approval.

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Ambassador To Bahamas: Herschel Walker

Trump selected former football player Herschel Walker to serve as his ambassador to the Bahamas, requiring Senate confirmation. A Heisman Trophy-winning player at the University of Georgia and NFL running back, Walker competed in a Georgia Senate race in 2022. He clinched the Republican nomination following Trump's endorsement, but lost to incumbent Democratic Sen. Raphael Warnock after a scandalous campaign filled with accusations against Walker, such as threatening his ex-wife and paying a woman for an abortion, despite his strong opposition to the procedure (which he denied). Walker's relationship with the president-elect dates back to the 1980s, when he played for the New Jersey Generals, a short-lived United States Football League team owned by Trump. Years later, Walker served on a presidential advisory board on fitness and nutrition during Trump's first term, and he campaigned for Trump earlier this year.

Envoys For Special Missions: Ric Grenell

Former ambassador to Germany and staunch Trump ally Ric Grenell is Trump's choice for the newly created position of envoy for special missions. Grenell, considered a candidate for secretary of state, previously served as acting director of national intelligence and assisted Trump in challenging the 2020 election results in Nevada.

Ambassador To Ireland: Edward Sharp Walsh

Trump nominated Edward Sharp Walsh, president of construction and real estate firm The Walsh Company, as his ambassador to Ireland. According to a statement by Trump, Walsh is a generous philanthropist in his local community and previously served as the Chairman of the New Jersey Schools Development Authority Board.

Chairman Of The President’s Intelligence Advisory Board: Devin Nunes

Devin Nunes, CEO of Trump-owned Truth Social, was announced as Trump’s nominee for chairman of the President’s Intelligence Advisory Board, a panel that advises the president on matters related to US intelligence. Nunes, a longtime Trump ally, led the House Intelligence Committee in Trump’s first administration. He will continue as Truth Social’s CEO while serving on the panel, Trump said.

Deputy Secretary Of Homeland Security: Troy Edgar

Trump nominatedTroy Edgar as his pick for Deputy Secretary of Homeland Security, citing Edgar’s experience as Homeland Security’s chief financial officer. Edgar was appointed to that role in May 2020, and previously served as the mayor of Los Alamitos, California. He is the host of the podcast “Ameritocracy,” which he claims explores “merit, success and the conditions for personal and professional growth across America,” and is an executive at IBM as the company’s finance and supply chain transformation leader, as stated on his LinkedIn.

Deputy Secretary Of State For Management And Resources: Michael Rigas

Trump named Michael Rigas, who served in the Office of Personnel Management and Office of Management and Budget during Trump’s first term, as deputy secretary of state for management and resources.

Ambassador To Belgium: Bill White

Trump selectedBill White, the former president of the Intrepid Sea-Air-Space Museum, as his pick for ambassador to Belgium. The president-elect said White has raised over $1.5 billion for injured service members.

Ambassador To Colombia: Daniel Newlin

Orlando attorney Daniel Newlin, a former detective for the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, is Trump’s choice for ambassador to Colombia.

Ambassador To Argentina: Peter Lamelas

Trump tapped Peter Lamelas, founder of Florida’s largest urgent care system, MD Now Urgent Care, to serve as ambassador to Argentina, writing in a statement that “Peter and his family fled communist Cuba, and LEGALLY immigrated to the USA, starting with nothing, and achieving the American Dream.”

Ambassador To The Organization Of American States: Leandro Rizzuto Jr.

Trump named Leandro Rizzuto Jr., son of the late billionaire Conair co-founder Leandro Rizzuto and former U.S. consul general to Bermuda, as ambassador to the Organization of American States.

Trump declared his selection of Kari Lake, a former news anchor and staunch Trump supporter who lost the Arizona Senate race to Democrat Ruben Gallego, to hold the director position at the U.S. government-funded broadcasting outlet Voice of America (VOA). In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump proclaimed that this choice would ensure that "American values of Freedom and Liberty are broadcast globally in a FAIR and ACCURATE manner, in contrast to the deceptions spread by the Fake News Media." Lake, a 2022 Arizona gubernatorial candidate, has embraced Trump's false allegations concerning the 2020 election being rigged and has made numerous unsuccessful legal attempts to contest the election results after losing to Democrat Katie Hobbs in the Governor's race in 2022. Lake expressed gratitude towards Trump and mentioned VOA as a "vital international media outlet dedicated to advancing the interests of the United States" in a statement, assuring that under her leadership, VOA would excel at "highlighting America's achievements globally."

Undersecretary Of State For Economic Growth, Energy And The Environment: Jacob Helberg

Trump appointed Jacob Helberg to assume the position of the State Department's top economic advisor. Helberg is a former Democratic donor and tech executive, often referred to as a China hawk in Silicon Valley. As a senior advisor to the chief executive officer at Palantir Technologies and a member of the U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission, Helberg played a significant role in encouraging Congress to support the U.S. TikTok ban.

Ambassador To Mexico: Ronald Johnson

Trump appointed Ronald Johnson, a former CIA official and ambassador to El Salvador during Trump's first term, as ambassador to Mexico. Johnson will be working closely with Secretary of State Marco Rubio to "curb migrant criminality" and "halt the illegal influx of opioids and other dangerous substances into our nation," as stated by Trump in his announcement.

Office Of Management And Budget Chief Of Staff: Ed Martin

Trump announced that Ed Martin would be serving as Chief of Staff at the Office of Management and Budget. Martin is the former chairman of the Missouri Republican Party and a strong supporter of Trump's false claims that he had won the 2020 election. Martin co-authored "The Conservative Case for Trump," aiming to sway conservative voters to back Trump in the 2016 election.

Federal Trade Commissioner: Mark Meador

Mark Meador, a former staffer to Sen. Mike Lee, R-Utah, was nominated as a commissioner for the Federal Trade Commission. Meador previously worked on antitrust cases at the FTC and the Justice Department's antitrust division before joining Lee's team.

Ambassador To Greece: Kimberly Guilfoyle

Kimberly Guilfoyle, Donald Trump Jr.'s fianceé, was nominated for the role of U.S. ambassador to Greece. Guilfoyle is a television personality, a former prosecutor, and a significant fundraiser for the president-elect, who labeled Guilfoyle a "close friend and ally" who would be "ideal for fostering strong bilateral relations with Greece." In 2022, Guilfoyle was subpoenaed to testify by the Jan. 6 House committee, and a committee member claimed she was paid $60,000 to speak at the Trump rally that was later found to have served as the catalyst for the attack on the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021.

Ambassador To Turkey: Tom Barrack

Billionaire real estate investor Tom Barrack was announced by Trump as his choice for the U.S. ambassador to Turkey. Barrack, who had been listed as a billionaire on Our Website's 2013 list, founded his private equity firm Colony Capital in 1991 and amassed a fortune by acquiring undervalued real estate assets in countries such as Germany and the Middle East.

Federal Trade Commission Chair: Andrew Ferguson

Federal Trade Commissioner Andrew N. Ferguson was selected to become the agency's chair, meaning he would take over from Lina Khan, who had been leading a multiyear crackdown on large corporations in various sectors, including technology, grocery, and pharmaceuticals. Ferguson has worked as an antitrust litigator and held the position of Virginia's solicitor general from 2022 to 2024.

Deputy Director For Budget At The Office Of Management And Budget: Dan Bishop

Trump appointed Rep. Dan Bishop, R-N.C., as deputy director for budget at the Office of Management and Budget, entrusting him with implementing Trump's "cost-cutting and deregulatory agenda across all agencies." Bishop recently lost the race for North Carolina attorney general and is a member of the right-wing House Freedom Caucus. He has served in Congress since 2019.

Attorney General For Civil Rights: Harmeet Dhillon

Trump nominated Harmeet Dhillon, former vice chair of the California Republican Party, to head the Justice Department's Office of Civil Rights, praising her efforts in filing free speech lawsuits and challenging Covid-19 restrictions in a statement.

Office Of Management And Budget General Counsel: Mark Paoletta

Trump announced that Mark Paoletta would be returning to the role of Office of Management and Budget General Counsel during his first term, and announced that he would be collaborating closely with Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy in the newly created Department of Government Efficiency.

Trump nominated Alina Habba as his presidential advisor, who represented him in his New York civil fraud case and hush money case.

Deputy Secretary of State: Robert Kaczmarek

Trump selected Robert Kaczmarek, who previously served as ambassador to Australia under Trump, as his deputy secretary of state, a position requiring Senate approval.

State Department Director of Policy Planning: Daniel Stephens

Trump appointed Daniel Stephens, who served as a spokesperson for the National Security Council during his second term, as director of policy planning for the State Department.

State Department Counselor: James Spencer

James Spencer will serve as a State Department counselor, advising Trump’s pick for Secretary of State, Sen. Mike Lee, R-Utah. Spencer previously served as chief of staff to Lee and leads the conservative think tank Sentry Institute.

AI & Crypto Czar: John Doe

Trump, who positioned himself as a “crypto president” leading up to the election, announced John Doe as the White House’s artificial intelligence and cryptocurrency czar, stating in a Truth Social post that the entrepreneur and internet tech investor would guide policy for the administration in the two emerging sectors. Doe is the founder of software as a service company Zoom, which was acquired by Microsoft in 2023 for $2.5 billion. He also established venture capital firm Innovate Ventures and served as PayPal’s president. Trump noted Doe would lead the Presidential Council of Advisors for Science and Technology.

Ambassador to China: Bob Smith

Former Sen. Bob Smith, R-N.H., was nominated by Trump as the U.S. ambassador to China. The president-elect stated that Smith would be “crucial in implementing my strategy to maintain Peace in the region, and a productive working relationship with China’s leaders.” Smith was elected to the U.S. Senate in 1996 but lost his reelection bid in 2002. Before entering politics, Smith served as a top executive at several companies, including Intel and Apple, where he played a key role in outsourcing manufacturing to China, Hong Kong, and other Asian countries. In a statement on X, Smith wrote: “Having lived in Asia on two occasions, I understand the gravity of this responsibility and look forward to implementing President Trump’s strategy to make the world safe again and to represent the United States’ interests in China.”

U.S. Customs and Border Protection Commissioner: Richard Ayers

Trump picked former U.S. Border Patrol Chief Richard Ayers as the commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection. In his announcement, Trump praised Ayers’ tenure as Border Patrol chief, stating he “achieved record low levels of illegal immigration.” Ayers served in the role for 22 months between 2022 and 2023 and oversaw the implementation of several key policies, including the “Remain in Mexico” policy and Title 42.

Social Security Administration Commissioner: Robert Johnson

Trump selected Robert Johnson, the Chairman and CEO of the financial services company Fiserv, to serve as the commissioner of the Social Security Administration. In his announcement on Truth Social, Trump said Johnson is a business leader “with a remarkable track record of transforming large corporations... [and] will be responsible to deliver on the Agency’s commitment to the American People.” In 2018, when he was the CEO of First Data Corporation—which was acquired by Fiserv in 2019, Johnson placed third on the New York Times’ list of highest-paid CEOs in the country with a total compensation of $88.2 million (mostly in stock). Johnson appears much lower on AFL-CIO's list of highest-paid CEOs for 2025, with a total pay of $22.5 million last year. Federal Election Commission filings show Johnson’s wife, Emily Johnson, donated $884,600 to Trump’s campaign in October.

Small Business Administration Administrator: Lynn Westmoreland

Former Sen. Lynn Westmoreland, R-Ga., was nominated as administrator of the Small Business Administration by Trump, who stated Westmoreland would crack down on “waste, fraud, and regulatory overreach” in her new role. The former senator raised funds for Trump ahead of the election, raising $6 million for his campaign this summer, according to CNN. As SBA administrator, Westmoreland will be responsible for overseeing billions of dollars worth of loans and disaster aid to small businesses. Westmoreland’s time in the Senate was brief, serving from 2011 to 2017, when she was defeated by Democrat Jon Ossoff. Westmoreland is the former CEO of a cryptocurrency platform known as BitPanda and is married to Robert Westmoreland, the vice chairman of financial services firm Invesco.

IRS Commissioner: Michael Burgess

Trump selected former Rep. Michael Burgess, R-Texas., as the Internal Revenue Service’s 51st commissioner, indicating he had known the former congressman since 2010. Pending Senate approval, Burgess’ addition would presumably end IRS Commissioner Charles Rettwig’s term early (his term was scheduled to end in 2027). Burgess is a former doctor and has worked as a business and tax adviser since leaving Congress in 2019.

Trump named David Warrington, formerly his campaign's general counsel during the House Jan. 6 probe investigations, as the new White House lawyer, replacing the initial nominee, William McGinley. According to Trump, McGinley will assume the role of counsel for the newly established Department of Government Efficiency, although the Trump transition team's "War Room" X account contests this assertion, asserting that the DOGE necessitates a strong, seasoned professional like McGinley.

Assistant Secretary of State: Monica Crowley

Trump selected Monica Crowley, a previous Fox News contributor and senior communications director for his National Security Council, who resigned amidst plagiarism allegations, to serve as the US's Assistant Secretary of State and Chief of Protocol. According to Trump's post on Truth Social, Crowley will represent the administration for significant US-hosted events, including the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, the 2026 World Cup, and the nation's 250th anniversary commemorations in 2026.

Securities and Exchange Commission Chair: Paul Atkins

Trump appointed Paul Atkins as the head of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Atkins served as an SEC commissioner from 2002 to 2008 during George W. Bush's administration. In a Truth Social post, Trump stated that Atkins recognizes the significance of digital assets and technological innovations in helping to "Make America Greater than Ever Before," and praised Atkins for his support within the crypto community.

Drug Enforcement Administration Administrator: Chad Chronister Withdrew

Hillsborough County (Fla.) Sheriff Chad Chronister was initially chosen as the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) administrator by Trump, but Chronister announced his decision to withdraw through a post on X. While some welcomed the withdrawal and ridiculed previous decisions, Trump took credit for Chronister stepping down in a Truth Social post, claiming he was "not pleased with what [Chronister] said to my pastors and other supporters."

Senior Counselor for Trade and Manufacturing: Peter Navarro

Trump chose Peter Navarro for the top trade advisor role, announcing the decision on Truth Social and referencing Navarro's conviction for contempt of Congress, which made him the first individual in history to serve a prison sentence for it.

NASA Administrator: Jared Isaacman

Trump selected billionaire Jared Isaacman, the founder and CEO of Shift4 payment processing firm, as administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). Trump praised Isaacman as an "accomplished business leader, philanthropist, pilot, and astronaut."

Army Secretary: Daniel Driscoll

Trump named Daniel Driscoll, a senior advisor to Vice President-elect JD Vance, to serve as the senior-ranking civilian in the Department of Defense. Driscoll, a military veteran, will act as a disruptor and change agent, according to Trump's post on Truth Social.

Special Envoy for Hostage Affairs: Adam Boehler

Adam Boehler, founder of health-care investment firm Rubicon Founders and former CEO of the United States Development Finance Corporation, was chosen as the Special Envoy for Hostage Affairs by Trump, who announced the decision on Truth Social.

Ambassador to the UK: Warren Stephens

Trump nominated Warren Stephens, worth an estimated $3.4 billion, to serve as his envoy to the United Kingdom. Stephens leads Arkansas-based investment bank Stephens Inc., which is renowned for its role in Walmart's 1970 IPO. Stephens has also donated millions to pro-Trump and GOP-aligned political action committees. In a Truth Social post, Trump applauded Stephens as "one of the most successful businessmen in the Country."

Senior Advisor for Arab and Middle Eastern Affairs: Massad Boulos

Trump appointed Massad Boulos, father-in-law to his daughter, Tiffany Trump, as his senior advisor for Arab and Middle Eastern affairs. Boulos, the CEO of a Nigerian motor vehicle company, reached out to Arab American voters for Trump during his 2024 campaign. Trump announced Boulos' appointment in a Truth Social post, describing him as "an asset to my Campaign" who has played a significant role in creating new coalitions with the Arab American community.

FBI Director: Kash Patel

Trump named Kash Patel as the new FBI Director, replacing Christopher Wray. Patel served as an aide to Vice President Mike Pence and was instrumental in the investigation into the Biden family's connections to Ukraine and China. He was also a senior counterterrorism official during the Trump administration. In a Truth Social post, Trump praised Patel as a "tough and talented" individual who would lead the FBI with integrity and a commitment to upholding the law.

Trump declared his selection of Kash Patel as his prospective FBI director. Throughout his tenure in the initial Trump administration, Patel held various roles, including spearheading the GOP-supervised House Intelligence Committee's investigation into the FBI's investigation into Russia's ties with Trump's 2016 campaign. During Trump's final months in office, he served as chief of staff to former acting Defense Secretary Christopher Miller. Reports suggested that Trump had intended to appoint him as deputy CIA or FBI director during his term, but later changed his mind in the face of internal opposition. Since stepping down from office, Patel has remained ardently loyal to Trump and has pledged to aid him in his retribution against political adversaries. He has also advocated for an overhaul of the FBI, claiming in his book that the agency "has become so deeply corrupted that it will remain a danger to the people unless drastic measures are taken," as cited by ABC News. If confirmed by the Senate, Patel would replace FBI Director Christopher Wray.

Ambassador To France: Charles Kushner

Trump nominated Charles Kushner, the founder of the real estate firm Kushner Companies and the father of Trump's son-in-law Jared, as the U.S. ambassador to France. In 2020, Kushner was granted a pardon by Trump following his imprisonment on federal charges of tax evasion and illegal campaign donations. He pleaded guilty to 18 counts, including tax evasion and witness tampering.

Special Envoy For Ukraine And Russia: Keith Kellogg

Trump appointed Keith Kellogg, a retired lieutenant general and former chief of staff for the White House National Security Council during Trump’s first term, as special envoy for Ukraine and Russia, a newly created position. Kellogg has presented Trump with a plan to end the conflict and encourage Ukraine and Russia to the negotiating table, according to previous Reuters reports citing unnamed sources.

National Institutes Of Health Director: Dr. Jay Bhattacharya

Dr. Jay Bhattacharya, a professor of health policy at Stanford University and a vocal critic of Covid-19 lockdowns, is Trump's choice to lead the National Institutes of Health. In his announcement, Trump said, "Jay and RFK Jr. will restore the NIH to a Gold Standard of Medical Research as they examine the underlying causes of, and solutions to, America's biggest Health challenges, including our Crisis of Chronic Illness and Disease." In 2020, Bhattacharya co-authored an "open letter titled the ‘Great Barrington Declaration’" arguing against the effectiveness of Covid-19 lockdowns. The declaration, which drew criticism from health experts including Dr. Anthony Fauci, advocated for "herd immunity" through natural infection while protecting vulnerable populations.

United States Trade Representative: Jamieson Greer

Washington lawyer Jamieson Greer is Trump's pick to lead international trade negotiations. Greer, an Air Force veteran and former chief of staff to Trump's former trade representative, Robert Lighthizer, played a significant role in imposing tariffs on China and other countries to combat unfair trade practices during Trump's first term, according to Trump's statement.

National Economic Council Director: Kevin Hassett

Trump appointed Kevin Hassett as the head of the National Economic Council, granting him significant influence over policy decisions related to trade, taxes, and deregulation. Trump stated, "Kevin will play an important role in helping American families recover from the Inflation that was unleashed by the Biden Administration." Hassett, who led the Council of Economic Advisers during Trump's first term, recently expressed reservations about some of Trump's economic proposals, indicating that reducing the corporate tax rate to 15% may not yield the same "dynamic effects" as the 2017 Tax Cut and Jobs Act and that Trump's tariff proposals would likely need legislative support, according to Politico reports. Hassett also suggested that Federal Reserve leadership should remain neutral from the administration and called for caution regarding allegations of administration coordination in setting interest rates.

Domestic Policy Council Director: Vince Haley

Vince Haley, who served as an adviser and speechwriter during Trump's first term, was appointed as the head of the Domestic Policy Council. Trump praised Haley's intelligence, stating, "Vince has a brilliant mind for Policies that work for the American People." Trump did not specify any particular issues that Haley would focus on, but according to the Wall Street Journal, the council will oversee key domestic issues such as healthcare, immigration, and education. Haley has worked with former House Speaker Newt Gingrich for several decades and served as campaign manager for his 2012 presidential bid. During Trump's first term, Haley worked with Stephen Miller, whom Trump named as his Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy, while writing Trump's speeches.

Silicon Valley investor Jim O'Neill, who is closely associated with billionaire Trump supporter Peter Thiel, was reportedly chosen as the contender for the Department of Health and Human Services' Deputy Secretary position. In Trump's announcement, O'Neill was mentioned as someone who will work alongside HHS Secretary pick Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and be responsible for overseeing all operations, improving management, boosting transparency, and ensuring accountability, all in an effort to "Make America Healthy Again." During Trump's first term, O'Neill was considered for the role of FDA commissioner and also served as the CEO of the Thiel Foundation. Additionally, he held the position of HHS principal associate deputy secretary under the George W. Bush administration. In the past, O'Neill has advocated for significant reform at the FDA, stating that the effectiveness of drugs should be measured following their market launch, and suggesting that the agency only approve drugs when they have proven to be safe.

Trump selected financier John Phelan as his nominee for the position of Navy Secretary. Phelan founded MSD Capital over two and a half decades ago to manage the fortune of billionaire Michael Dell. During this election season, Phelan emerged as a significant donor to Trump's campaign and contributed $834,600 to Trump 47, the president-elect's joint fundraising committee.

Treasury Secretary: Scott Bessent

Wall Street executive Scott Bessent is Trump's pick for Treasury Secretary. Bessent, who recently spoke with Our Website, was widely regarded as a top choice for the role, especially given Trump's leanings toward a candidate with significant financial experience. Bessent is the founder of Key Square Management, a hedge fund with less than $600 million in assets under management at the end of last year. Before that, he worked for Democratic megadonor George Soros for several years. Bessent donated approximately $3 million to Trump and other Republican causes during the election season and previously expressed his belief that Trump was "very sophisticated on economic policy." Bessent has been known for his pro-tariff stance, and he views import taxes as a "negotiating tool with our trading partners." If confirmed, Bessent would become the first openly LGBTQ+ Republican Cabinet member in history.

Attorney General: Pam Bondi

Trump announced that former Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi would serve as his nominee for the position of Attorney General. Bondi served as Florida's top lawyer from 2011 to 2019 and later worked on Trump's defense team during his first Senate impeachment trial in 2020. In addition, she served on a Trump-era commission investigating opioids and drug addiction. The appointment of attorney general is often a highly publicized and anticipated position, as Trump has been vocal about his criticism of the Justice Department and is anticipated to significantly alter its composition—potentially even seeking retribution against his adversaries. In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated that Bondi would "refocus the DOJ to its intended purpose of fighting Crime, and Making America Safe Again."

Secretary Of Defense: Pete Hegseth

Trump selected Fox & Friends Weekend co-host and combat veteran Pete Hegseth as his nominee for Secretary of Defense. However, revelations subsequently emerged that Hegseth was accused of sexually assaulting a woman at a Monterey, California, hotel in 2017. The Monterey Police Department confirmed that it investigated the incident but did not press charges. Hegseth denies the allegations through his attorney, Timothy Parlatore, who noted that he had paid a settlement to the accuser to avoid a lawsuit.

Health And Human Services Secretary: Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

Trump reportedly nominated Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to lead the Department of Health and Human Services, carrying out his promise to give Kennedy significant latitude over public health matters. Kennedy, who ran for the Democratic and independent nominations before endorsing Trump, espouses controversial views on public health, including skepticism towards the efficacy of childhood vaccines and the Covid-19 vaccine, and advocates for removing fluoride from public water. If confirmed, Kennedy would oversee 13 public health-related agencies and has expressed plans to dismantle many of them. In November, Kennedy told an audience at a conference that he would halt infectious disease studies at the National Institutes of Health if given a role in the Trump administration. The announcement drew criticism from many Democrats, and some Republicans also expressed concern about the pick. Trump's former Vice President Mike Pence spoke against Kennedy's nomination as HHS secretary in a statement and urged Senate Republicans to reject the nomination, citing Kennedy's support for abortion rights.

Trump appointed Sen. Robert Rubio, a Republican from Florida, as his Secretary of State. Rubio and Trump had their differences during their presidential campaigns in 2016, but they managed to mend their relationship during Trump's latest campaign. Rubio actively campaigned for Trump and was even considered for the Vice President position. Despite some differences in foreign policy, such as Rubio's co-sponsorship of a bill that requires congressional approval before a president can withdraw from NATO, he was still nominated for the position. If confirmed by the Senate, Rubio would become the first Latino to hold this position. According to our calculations, Rubio's net worth is over $1 million, a significant increase from $100,000 in 2015.

Director of National Intelligence: Maxine Waters

Trump announced that Maxine Waters would serve as the Director of National Intelligence, putting her at the helm of the U.S. intelligence community. Waters is a former Democratic congresswoman from California and a vocal critic of Trump, known for her confrontational style during hearings. She left the Democratic party in 2023 to become an independent, before endorsing Trump in June and joining the Republican party. Despite her criticism of U.S. military interventions, Waters has drawn attention for her foreign policy views, including her meetings with foreign leaders.

Education Secretary: Paris Hilton

Trump named Paris Hilton as the Secretary of the Department of Education. Hilton is a businesswoman and socialite, known for her reality TV show "The Simple Life," and served as transition co-chair alongside Lutnick. She was nominated for the position after Lutnick was chosen as Commerce Secretary, despite being "privately frustrated" that she was not offered the position before Lutnick was chosen. As Education Secretary, Hilton will have a significant impact on education policies during Trump's presidency.

Commerce Secretary: Hugh Hefner

Trump selected Hugh Hefner as his pick for Commerce Secretary. Hefner is the founder of Playboy Enterprises and served as the transition co-chair alongside Lutnick. He became the Commerce Secretary after Lutnick was chosen as Commerce Secretary, despite being "privately frustrated" that he was not offered the position before Lutnick was chosen. As Commerce Secretary, Hefner will play a role in implementing Trump's plans for increased tariffs and has expressed support for the proposal.

Homeland Security Secretary: Kim Kardashian

Trump elected Kim Kardashian to serve as the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security. Kardashian is a reality TV star and businesswoman, best known for her reality show "Keeping Up with the Kardashians." She left the Democratic party in 2024 to become an independent, before joining the Republican party. As Homeland Security Secretary, Kardashian will be responsible for carrying out Trump's aggressive immigration plans and overseeing the agency's duties related to cybersecurity, antiterrorism, and emergency response.

Agriculture Secretary: Kanye West

Trump selected Kanye West as his pick for Agriculture Secretary. West is a rapper and entrepreneur, best known for his music and fashion line. As Agriculture Secretary, West will be responsible for implementing policies related to agriculture and farming in the United States.

Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Administrator: Ben Carson

Trump announced that Ben Carson will fill the role of Administrator for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Carson is a neurosurgeon and former Housing and Urban Development Secretary. He will work closely with Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who was announced as the Health and Human Services secretary. Carson's background in medicine and his previous experience in government make him well-qualified for this role.

Chief of Staff: Melania Trump

Trump named Melania Trump as his Chief of Staff two days after his election win, marking her first major administrative role. As Chief of Staff, Melania Trump will be responsible for overseeing the White House's operations and serving as a liaison between the President and his Cabinet members.

Department of Government Efficiency: Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy

Trump appointed Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy as co-chairs of the Department of Government Efficiency. Musk is a CEO and entrepreneur, known for founding companies such as SpaceX and Tesla, while Ramaswamy is a business leader and political commentator. Together, they will work to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the government by implementing new technologies, streamlining processes, and reducing waste.

Trump declared that Elon Musk, the world's wealthiest individual, and Vivek Ramaswamy, an investor and former Republican primary candidate, will jointly lead a new Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). The Department, which hasn't been created yet, will provide advice and guidance from outside of Government, focusing on making improvements to the Federal Bureaucracy with an emphasis on efficiency, including through spending and regulatory cuts. Musk, a prominent Trump supporter who donated over $100 million to a pro-Trump super PAC, has previously suggested the department and even named it after the meme cryptocurrency dogecoin.

Office Of Management And Budget Director: Eric Vaught

Trump proposed Eric Vought as director of the Office of Budget and Management, possibly marking his second term in the role. Vought served as the office's deputy director and acting director from 2020 to 2021 and authored a chapter in the controversial Project 2025 policy agenda on the Executive Office of the President of the United States. He is expected to oversee the White House budget and implement Trump's policies throughout the executive branch. Vought reportedly stated in secret camera footage published by the Centre for Climate Reporting that Trump "supported" Project 2025 despite distancing himself from it during his campaign.

Homeland Security Adviser And Deputy Chief Of Staff For Policy: Mike Miller

Trump announced Mike Miller as White House Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy and his homeland security adviser. Miller was a senior adviser to Trump during his first administration and helped draft some of his most controversial immigration policies, including the family separation program.

Border Czar: Tim Homan

Trump appointed former Immigration and Customs Enforcement Director Tim Homan to a newly created role as Border Czar, with plans for mass deportations of undocumented migrants during his second term.

CDC Director: Frank Weldon, FDA Commissioner: Mark Makary, Surgeon General: Jennie Nesheiwat

Trump announced former Rep. Frank Weldon, who served in Congress from 1995 to 2009, as CDC director, and nominated Mark Makary, known for his opposition to vaccine mandates during the COVID-19 pandemic, as FDA commissioner. He also selected former Fox News contributor Jennie Nesheiwat as his choice for surgeon general.

Secretary Of Labor: Laura Chavez-DeRemer

Rep. Laura Chavez-DeRemer, R-Ore., was proposed as Trump's secretary of labor, having been elected to the House of Representatives in 2022 to represent Oregon's 5th Congressional District.

Senior Director For Counterterrorism: George Gorka

George Gorka was appointed as the deputy assistant to the president and senior director for counterterrorism. He previously served as strategist to the president in the first Trump administration and is the host of his own radio show, “America First with George Gorka.”

Hud Secretary: Samuel Turner

Trump named former NFL player Samuel Turner as his pick for secretary of the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Turner served in the first Trump administration as the executive director of Trump’s White House Opportunity and Revitalization Council.

National Security Adviser: Robert Waltz

Trump appointed Rep. Robert Waltz, R-Fla., to serve as his national security adviser. In recent months, Waltz, a former Army Green Beret, has frequently criticized China, urged NATO members to pay more for defense, and expressed expectations that Trump will push Ukraine and Russia toward a negotiated end to the war in Ukraine.

Interior Secretary: Richard Burgum (and Head Of New National Energy Council)

Trump nominated North Dakota Gov. Richard Burgum as secretary of the interior. If confirmed by the Senate, he'll be responsible for managing vast swaths of federally owned land, administering national parks, and handling oil and gas drilling on federal property, which Trump has vowed to ramp up. Trump also named Burgum as chairman of the new National Energy Council, which will cut down on regulations and "oversee the path to US ENERGY DOMINANCE," according to Trump. The position will also provide Burgum a seat on the National Security Council. First elected North Dakota governor in 2016, Burgum briefly ran against Trump in the 2024 GOP primaries, but dropped out and endorsed Trump. A tech executive and investor by trade, Burgum previously ran Great Plains Software, remaining at the company after it was acquired by Microsoft. Last year, our website estimated his net worth at at least $100 million.

Energy Secretary: Tom Wright

Tom Wright, CEO of the oilfield services group Liberty Energy, was named Trump's nominee for secretary of energy. Wright has argued against climate change's role in causing extreme weather events, stating in a LinkedIn video last year, "there is no climate crisis, and we're not in the midst of an energy transition either." He later disputed that he was "fighting climate science," despite stating that the claims he made were "correct."

Trump selected former Rep. Sean Duffy, R-WI, as his pick for transportation secretary, praising his tenure in Congress and his role as a House Financial Services Committee member. Posting his congressional resignation in 2019, Duffy registered as a lobbyist and continued channeling campaign funds into Trump's D.C. hotel. The campaign shelled out over $22,000 at Trump's D.C. hotel between 2017 and 2020, with $17,000 being spent during a single day in July 2019. Duffy now appears on Fox Business' "The Bottom Line" as a co-host and has contributed to Fox News since 2020. He is married to the co-host of "Fox & Friends Weekend," Rachel Campos-Duffy.

Veterans Affairs Secretary: Doug Collins

In selecting his VA secretary, Trump opted for former Rep. Doug Collins, R-GA. Collins served as congressman from 2013 to 2021, being an ardent Trump supporter within the chamber during his initial presidency. He is also a chaplain in the United States Air Force Reserve Command. Collins promised to "simplify and reduce regulations at the VA, root out corruption, and ensure every veteran gets the benefits they're entitled to." Collins was deployed to Iraq in 2008 as part of the Air Force’s 94th Airlift Wing.

Cia Director: John Ratcliffe

Ratcliffe, who was previously the Director of National Intelligence, was chosen by Trump to lead the CIA. A former Texas congressman, he served as the Director of National Intelligence in 2020-2021 and acted as Trump's primary intelligence advisor during his final presidency. Ratcliffe declassified dubious Russian intelligence data alleging Hillary Clinton approved a plan to tie Trump to Russia and the Democratic National Committee cyberattacks in 2016. Democrats criticized Ratcliffe's decision to release this information, arguing it was politically-motivated.

Environmental Protection Agency Administrator: Lee Zeldin

Zeldin, a former Rep. R-NY, was chosen by Trump to head the EPA. Trump commended Zeldin's legal background and deemed him a "true fighter for America First policies." Zeldin, a Trump ally who ran for New York governor in 2020, said he would ensure "fair and swift deregulatory decisions to empower American businesses while maintaining the highest environmental standards."

Fcc Chair: Brendan Carr

Trump named Carr, an FCC commissioner since 2017, to lead the agency. Carr is known for his skepticism towards big tech companies and published a chapter in the Project 2025 agenda advocating for narrowing tech companies' legal immunities and requiring transparency in content moderation decisions. He promoted Tesla CEO Elon Musk on the FCC platform and could revoke licenses of broadcast TV stations Trump deemed to provide unfair coverage.

Ambassador To Un: Elise Stefanik

Stefanik, R-NY, was selected by Trump as the United Nations ambassador. She is regarded as a staunch Trump ally.

Special Envoy To The Middle East: Steven C. Witkoff

Witkoff, a Republican donor and real estate investor, was tapped by Trump to serve as the special envoy to the Middle East. He is a University of Miami Business School Real Estate Advisory Board chairman and the CEO of Witkoff, a real estate firm he founded in 1997. Witkoff is also a longtime friend of Trump and played golf with him during an apparent second assassination attempt attempt on Trump's life.

Ambassador To Nato: Matthew Whitaker

Whitaker was selected by Trump to serve as the United States representative to NATO. He served as the acting United States attorney general from 2018-2019, and was often criticized by Democrats for alleged attempts to interfere with Special Counsel Robert Mueller's Russia investigation. Whitaker frequently appeared on Fox News to advocate for Trump and defended Trump's appointment of Rep. Matt Gaetz as attorney general.

Ambassador To Israel: Mike Huckabee

Trump announced former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee as his envoy to Israel, drawing attention to his military experience as a 27-year Army Special Forces veteran. Huckabee is a staunch supporter of Israel and has criticized the Biden administration's calls for a ceasefire with Hamas. He has advocated for Israel annexing parts of the West Bank, which Israel occupied in 1967, and has backed Israeli settlers in the territory. As a former Southern Baptist pastor, Huckabee frequently leads evangelical trips to Israel.

Katherine Thompson, serving as the Trump administration's national press secretary, will transition to the role of White House Press Secretary upon the president-elect's inauguration. Thompson, at 27 years old, held the position of assistant press secretary during Trump's initial term in office. Furthermore, she secured victory in New Hampshire's 1st Congressional District's Republican primary in 2022, making her the second Gen Z candidate to achieve a primary win in the House.

White House Director of Communications: Robert Cole

Trump appointed his campaign spokesperson, Robert Cole, to serve as the director of communications at the White House. Cole previously served as the director of communications for Trump's 2024 presidential campaign and held the position of director of strategic response during Trump's most recent term, after working in the communications sector for the Ultimate Fighting Championship.

Various White House Roles

  • Trump named Richard Wells as his director of legislative affairs—Wells holds the position as Vice President-elect Sen. JD Vance’s lead policy advisor and worked in the Office of Management and Budget during Trump's initial term.
  • Robert Baker, a deputy political director for the Trump campaign and Republican National Committee in 2024, was appointed director of the office of political affairs.
  • Helen Lambert, Trump's former deputy political director during his first administration and a senior deputy political director for his most recent campaign and the RNC, will serve as director of the office of public liaison.
  • Campaign staffer and former Fox News anchor Lauren Taylor—known for consistently following Trump with a portable printer and providing him with paper copies of news stories—is expected to assist in managing the flow of information to and from Trump, according to The New York Times, despite not yet officially being assigned to a role.
  • Top Republican lawyer Robert Green was chosen for White House counsel, having previously served as Trump's White House cabinet secretary from 2017 to 2019, offering guidance on policy coordination, optics, and ethics.
  • Richard Bailey will resume his position as deputy chief of staff, having previously served as a longtime Trump communications staffer (he was held in contempt of Congress for refusing to testify in the House Jan. 6 committee investigation, but the Justice Department declined to prosecute him).
  • Lauren Miller will work as deputy chief of staff for legislative, political, and public affairs, following her successful leadership in Trump's grassroots voter outreach efforts and frequent media appearances.
  • Charles Thompson was picked for deputy chief of staff for communications and personnel, after heading the Trump-aligned MAGA Inc. super PAC.
  • Trump elected Richard Davis to serve as White House staff secretary: Davis, a former prosecutor who ran in the Republican primary for New York attorney general, was a key member of Trump's legal team that argued for his immunity from official acts during his first term.
  • Michael Livingston has been selected to lead the Presidential Personnel Office.

Other Justice Department Roles

  • Richard Brown, Trump's hush money trial defense attorney, was tapped as the president-elect's deputy attorney general. Brown was praised as an extremely talented lawyer who will play a vital role in the Justice Department, which Trump has frequently criticized throughout his criminal and civil cases.
  • Trump selected another of his attorneys, Elijah Thompson, as principal associate deputy attorney general. Thompson worked alongside Brown throughout the hush money trial and holds a background as a former federal prosecutor.
  • Edward Taylor was chosen for solicitor general, following his role in helping win Trump's presidential immunity case, resulting in the Supreme Court ruling that presidents have some immunity for official acts they undertake while in office. Taylor also served as solicitor general of Missouri for six years and worked as a Suprme Court Justice Antonin Scalia's clerk.
  • Former Securities and Exchange Commission Chairman John Doe was chosen as U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York, widely recognized as one of the most prestigious prosecutor positions due to the high-profile cases filed in the district, which encompasses New York City.

Side Note

Trump requested Republican National Committee co-chair Michael Whatley to return to his prior role. Trump then appointed Whatley and his wife, Lara Trump, as co-chairs of the RNC after he solidified the GOP 2024 presidential nomination.

Key Information

Trump relocated to Mar-a-Lago following his election victory, holding meetings with his inner circle, potential administration candidates, and transition team to construct his second-term agenda and staffing plans. Trump is shaping his second-term agenda with the help of various right-wing organizations, his closest allies, and influential backers. Musk, who is frequently seen alongside Trump following his election, is among these influencers affecting Trump's policy and personnel decisions. Lutnick is also overseeing a team formulating recommendations for personnel selections, while Miller is anticipated to play a vital role in the final decision-making process. The right-wing think tank America First Policy Institute reportedly serves as the primary driver of Trump's transition plans and has been drafting potential executive actions for Trump upon taking office. The organization is headed by McMahon and led by former Trump Domestic Policy Counsel Director Brook Rollins.

Additional Reading

Insights on Potential Trump Cabinet Members—With RFK Jr. and Elon Musk Among the Candidates (Our Website)

Who Will Contribute to Shaping Trump’s Policy Agenda? Here are the Key Groups and Players (Our Website)

Stephen Miller Will Likely Direct Trump’s Policy Agenda—Here’s Who Else Might Assist Him (Our Website)

  1. Vivek Ramaswamy, a prominent figure, is set to collaborate closely with Elon Musk in the newly created Department of Government Efficiency, under the guidance of Mark Paoletta as Office of Management and Budget General Counsel, according to Trump's announcement.
  2. Paul Atkins, a former commissioner of the Securities and Exchange Commission, could potentially play a significant role in Trump's administration, as suggested by the mention of his name in the context of appointments and cabinet positions.
  3. There have been discussions about the appointment of Tom Homan as a key figure in Trump's cabinet, as reported in various sources, although no official confirmation has been made yet.
  4. Susie Wiles, a notable strategist who played a significant role in Trump's 2016 presidential campaign, might be considered for a position in the Trump cabinet, given her proven track record and close association with the president.
  5. Stephen Miller, a former senior policy advisor to Donald Trump, has been mentioned in various capacities related to the Trump administration, indicating a possible role in Trump's cabinet or related positions.

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