Donald Trump - the newly elected president - has begun assembling his cabinet and senior administration team.
Here's a detailed breakdown of his announced picks and potential candidates for key roles, ranging from economic policy to national security.
Key announced cabinet picks
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Scott Bessent – Treasury Secretary
A seasoned hedge fund investor and former Yale professor, Bessent is aligned with Trump's economic philosophy, favoring tariffs and deregulation. -
Marco Rubio – Secretary of State
The Florida senator, known for his strong stance on China and Iran, has adapted to Trump's less interventionist foreign policy approach. -
Pete Hegseth – Defense Secretary
A Fox News commentator and veteran, Hegseth aims to reform military leadership and policies, though controversy surrounds past allegations against him. -
Tulsi Gabbard – Director of National Intelligence
A former Democrat turned Republican, Gabbard brings political experience but limited intelligence background to this critical role. -
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. – Health and Human Services Secretary
Known for his controversial stance on vaccines, Kennedy plans to overhaul the FDA and NIH. -
Kristi Noem – Homeland Security Secretary
The South Dakota governor, a Trump ally, will oversee immigration, disaster response, and border security. -
Tom Homan – Border Czar
A hardliner on immigration, Homan promises strict enforcement against undocumented workers and security threats. -
Howard Lutnick – Commerce Secretary
The CEO of Cantor Fitzgerald will spearhead trade policies, focusing on challenging China's tech dominance. -
Elon Musk & Vivek Ramaswamy – Department of Government Efficiency
These tech leaders are tasked with cutting bureaucracy and modernizing federal operations. -
Pam Bondi – Attorney General
A former Florida attorney general, Bondi will prioritize immigration enforcement and address legal challenges against Trump.
Other major appointments
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Russ Vought – Director, Office of Management and Budget
Architect of conservative reforms, Vought will lead efforts to streamline government functions. -
Lee Zeldin – EPA Administrator
A staunch Trump ally, Zeldin will drive deregulation to boost energy production. -
Mike Waltz – National Security Adviser
A retired Green Beret and China critic, Waltz will shape Trump's foreign policy. -
Linda McMahon – Education Secretary
McMahon, critical of diversity initiatives, aims to reform or dismantle the Department of Education. -
Martin Makary – FDA Head
A Johns Hopkins surgeon and COVID-19 skeptic, Makary will oversee drug regulation. -
Scott Turner – Housing and Urban Development Secretary
A former NFL player, Turner is tasked with revitalizing distressed communities.
Notable contenders and roles in progress
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Robert Lighthizer – Potential Trade Czar or Treasury Secretary.
Lighthizer's tariff-focused trade strategy aligns closely with Trump's vision. -
Kash Patel – Candidate for National Security Roles or FBI Director.
A loyalist with experience in defense and intelligence, Patel could take on a significant role.
Trump's team reflects a mix of loyalists, private sector leaders, and experienced politicians, signaling a focus on economic reform, immigration control, and a more assertive foreign policy.
