Here Are the New Members of Donald Trump’s Administration So Far

President-elect Donald Trump has already begun building out a team to serve in his second term. 

Trump’s new administration is expected to look different from his first—he said in an October interview that the “biggest mistake” of his first term was choosing “bad, disloyal people” to join his administration. Donald Trump Jr. said in mid-November, after several unconventional choices had already been made, that pushback from the Washington establishment simply reflects his father fulfilling a campaign promise to appoint “actual disruptors—that’s what the American people want.” Many of the roles will need to be confirmed by the Senate—though Trump has demanded that Republican leadership let him bypass the typical confirmation process.

Here are the key appointments, nominations, and staffing decisions announced by Trump’s transition team, in a list that will continue to be updated.

Nicole McGraw, ambassador to Croatia

Trump has tapped art collector Nicole McGraw to be the next U.S. ambassador to Croatia. In his announcement, Trump described McGraw as a “philanthropist” and a “businesswoman,” though she has no prior diplomatic experience. Ambassadorships require Senate confirmation.

Herschel Walker, ambassador to the Bahamas

Trump has tapped former NFL player, U.S. Olympian, and unsuccessful Republican nominee for Georgia’s 2022 Senate race Herschel Walker to be the next U.S. ambassador to the Commonwealth of the Bahamas. Walker served in Trump’s first term as co-chair of the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition, but he has no previous diplomatic experience or obvious links to the Bahamas. “Herschel has spent decades serving as an Ambassador to our Nation’s youth, our men and women in the Military, and athletes at home and abroad,” Trump said in a statement.

Lou Rinaldi, ambassador to Uruguay

Trump has tapped businessman and friend Lou Rinaldi to be the next U.S. ambassador to Uruguay. “Lou brings a lifetime of experience and unique perspective to this important role. Lou is a great golfer, and will be in a Country with some terrific courses. Having grown up in Uruguay, he possesses an intimate understanding of the Country’s culture and history. His expertise and background make him exceptionally qualified to advance U.S. interests, and strengthen the longstanding partnership between the United States and Uruguay,” Trump said in his announcement.

George Glass, ambassador to Japan

Trump has tapped former ambassador to Portugal and vocal China critic George Glass to be the next U.S. ambassador to Japan, a major U.S. ally in East Asia. “As a former President of an Investment Bank, George will bring his business acumen to the Ambassador’s position,” Trump said in his announcement. “He will always PUT AMERICA FIRST.”

Stacey Feinberg, ambassador to Luxembourg

Trump has tapped businesswoman Stacey Feinberg to be the next U.S. ambassador to Luxembourg. “As a Producer of Broadway musicals, a motivational speaker, and a Board Member of the Women Founders Network, Stacey is committed to supporting women in launching their careers, and scaling their businesses to unprecedented success,” Trump said in his announcement.

Art Fisher, ambassador to Austria

Trump has tapped real estate broker Arthur Graham Fisher to be the next U.S. ambassador to Austria. Fisher is the president of Fisher Realty in North Carolina. “He has been consistently ranked as a top broker in the area, and the State of North Carolina, representing many of the most astute clients in America,” Trump said in his announcement. “Art has been a staunch supporter of America First Policies, and will make us proud in Austria!”

Leah Francis Campos, ambassador to the Dominican Republic

Trump has tapped former CIA case officer Leah Francis Campos to be the next U.S. ambassador to the Dominican Republic. She is the sister-in-law of Transportation Secretary-designate Sean Duffy and once worked on the House Foreign Affairs Committee as a senior advisor for the Western Hemisphere. “Leah will take her love of Country, and commitment to our National Security and Prosperity, to her post as U.S. Ambassador to the Dominican Republic,” Trump said in his announcement.

Ric Grenell, presidential envoy for special missions

Trump has tapped Richard Allen Grenell, his former ambassador to Germany and a staunch loyalist, to serve as presidential envoy for special missions. In his announcement, Trump said Grenell “will work in some of the hottest spots around the World, including Venezuela and North Korea.” During Trump’s first term, Grenell also served as acting director of National Intelligence and presidential envoy for Kosovo-Serbia negotiations. Special envoys may require Senate confirmation.

Edward Walsh, ambassador to Ireland

Trump has tapped businessman Edward Sharp Walsh to become the next U.S. ambassador to Ireland. Walsh is the president of the Walsh Company, a New Jersey-headquartered construction and real estate firm. “He is a great philanthropist in his local community, and previously served as the Chairman of the New Jersey Schools Development Authority Board,” Trump said in his announcement. “He is also a Champion Golfer, a very good asset for the Ambassador of Ireland to have.”

Devin Nunes, chairman of the President’s Intelligence Advisory Board

Trump is appointing former Rep. Devin Nunes (R-Calif.) to chair the President’s Intelligence Advisory Board, which sits within the Executive Office of the President and exists to provide the President with independent advice on the effectiveness of the intelligence agencies. As a lawmaker, Nunes chaired the House Intelligence Committee during Trump’s first term. While chair, he alleged that the FBI conspired against Trump in its probe into Russian interference in the 2016 elections. After leaving Congress in 2022, he became CEO of Trump’s social media platform Truth Social. “Devin will draw on his experience as former Chairman of the House Intelligence Committee, and his key role in exposing the Russia, Russia, Russia Hoax, to provide me with independent assessments of the effectiveness and propriety of the U.S. Intelligence Community’s activities,” Trump said in his announcement.

Bill White, ambassador to Belgium

Trump has tapped major donor and businessman Bill White to be the next U.S. ambassador to Belgium. White founded and heads consulting firm Constellations Group, and he was former president of the Intrepid Museum. White and his husband Bryan Eure used to support Democrats such as Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton but have since switched allegiances: in 2018, they held a $5-million fundraiser for Trump. The President-elect congratulated White, adding: “Bill is a highly respected businessman, philanthropist, author, and advocate for our Nation’s Military, Veterans, and First Responders.”

Troy Edgar, deputy secretary of Homeland Security

Trump said he plans to nominate Troy Edgar, former mayor of Los Alamitos, Calif., and current IBM executive, as the deputy secretary of Homeland Security—to work under Secretary-designate Kristi Noem. Edgar previously worked in the department during Trump’s first term as chief financial officer and associate deputy under secretary of management, and in his announcement, the President-elect said Edgar “did an outstanding job managing their $90 Billion Dollar budget, resourcing critical immigration policy, and funding Wall construction.” 

Kari Lake, director of Voice of America

Trump said he’s picked former television news anchor and failed Arizona governor and Senate candidate Kari Lake to be the director of Voice of America. Lake, a Trump loyalist and immigration hardliner, would be in charge of the federally-funded broadcast network that Trump has criticized in the past over its coverage. “The things they say are disgusting toward our country,” Trump said in 2020. During his first term, Trump was accused of trying to transform the ostensibly editorially independent network into his own propaganda outlet.

Trump’s choice of Lake, who once called journalists “monsters” and has consistently sparred with the press in support of Trump, suggests a similar approach in his second term. “She will be appointed by, and work closely with, our next head of the U.S. Agency for Global Media, who I will announce soon, to ensure that the American values of Freedom and Liberty are broadcast around the World FAIRLY and ACCURATELY, unlike the lies spread by the Fake News Media,” Trump said in his announcement. 

Michael J. Rigas, deputy secretary of State for management and resources

Trump announced that he’s nominating Michael J. Rigas to be deputy secretary of State for management and resources. Rigas served during Trump’s first term as the deputy and acting director of the Office of Personnel Management and the acting deputy director for management at the Office of Management and Budget. “Mike is a conservative warrior who knows how Government works, and will help Make America Great Again!” Trump said in a statement.

Daniel J. Newlin, ambassador to Colombia

Trump has tapped Florida-based attorney Daniel Newlin to be the next U.S. ambassador to Colombia. In his announcement, Trump commended Newlin’s career at the Orange County Sheriff’s Office and called him a “highly accomplished” business executive. “With his Law Enforcement expertise enabling him to navigate complex international issues, and his business insights fostering economic partnerships, Newlin stands as a powerful advocate for U.S. interests, and a Champion for strengthening ties, and making a difference in the World,” Trump said.

Peter Lamelas, ambassador to Argentina

Trump has tapped emergency physician and Republican campaign donor Peter Lamelas to be the next U.S. ambassador to Argentina. During his first term, Trump appointed Lamelas to the Justice Department’s Medal of Valor review board. “As a child, Peter and his family fled communist Cuba, and LEGALLY immigrated to the USA, starting with nothing, and achieving the American Dream,” Trump said in a statement.

Leandro Rizzuto Jr., ambassador to the Organization of American States

Trump has tapped former Conair executive Leandro Rizzuto Jr. to be the next U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States. Rizzuto, previously a Consul-General to Bermuda, has a history of peddling conspiracy theories about Trump’s opponents. “Lee will be fantastic as our next Ambassador to the OAS!” Trump said in his announcement.

Ronald Johnson, ambassador to Mexico

Trump said he will nominate  former ambassador to El Salvador Ronald Johnson to be the next U.S. ambassador to Mexico. In his announcement, Trump said Johnson will work closely with Secretary of State-designate Marco Rubio “to promote our Nation’s security and prosperity through strong America First Foreign Policies.” Trump has previously lamented the flow of migrants and drugs from Mexico into the U.S. and, in announcing his selection of Johnson, said: “Together, we will put an end to migrant crime, stop the illegal flow of Fentanyl and other dangerous drugs into our Country and, MAKE AMERICA SAFE AGAIN!”

Mark R. Meador, commissioner on the Federal Trade Commission

Trump has said he will nominate Mark R. Meador, currently a partner at a boutique law firm, to serve as a commissioner on the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). Meador previously worked at the FTC as an antitrust enforcer between 2011 and 2016, before moving to Big Law and then joining the Justice Department’s antitrust division in 2019. In 2020 he joined the office of Sen. Mike Lee (R-Utah), the ranking Republican on the Senate antitrust committee, as deputy chief counsel for antitrust and competition policy.

Ed Martin, chief of staff at the Office of Management and Budget

Trump announced that anti-abortion activist and organizer and financier of the “Stop the Steal” movement Ed Martin, who served as chief of staff to Gov. Matt Blunt (R-Mo.), will be chief of staff at the Office of Management and Budget. In a statement, Trump lauded Martin’s 2016 book The Conservative Case for Trump, co-written with Phyllis Schlafly and Brett M. Decker, and said “Ed is a winner who will help Make America Great Again!”

Dan Bishop, deputy director for budget at the Office of Management and Budget

Trump said he’s nominating retiring Rep. Dan Bishop (R-N.C.), who ran unsuccessfully for attorney general of North Carolina, to be deputy director for budget at the Office of Management and Budget. “Dan has been a tireless fighter for our MAGA Movement in the House of Representatives on the Judiciary and Homeland Security Committees,” Trump said in his announcement. “Dan will implement my cost-cutting and deregulatory agenda across all Agencies, and root out the Weaponized Deep State.”

Tom Barrack, ambassador to Turkey

Trump has tapped billionaire private equity executive Tom Barrack to be the next U.S. ambassador to Turkey. Barrack is a longtime ally of Trump and was a chair of his inaugural committee in 2017, but his confirmation may be bogged down by legal issues related to his dealings with the Middle East. In 2021, the Justice Department indicted Barrack for allegedly acting as a foreign agent on behalf of the United Arab Emirates and using his links to Trump, though he was acquitted in 2022. “He is a well respected and experienced voice of reason to a wide range of thought leaders in both political and business circles,” Trump said in a statement.

Kimberly Guilfoyle, ambassador to Greece

Trump has tapped Kimberly Guilfoyle, former TV personality and fiancée of Trump’s son Don Jr., to be the next U.S. ambassador to Greece. “Kimberly has been a close friend and ally. Her extensive experience and leadership in law, media, and politics along with her sharp intellect make her supremely qualified to represent the United States, and safeguard its interests abroad,” Trump said in an announcement. “Kimberly is perfectly suited to foster strong bilateral relations with Greece, advancing our interests on issues ranging from defense cooperation to trade and economic innovation.”

Jacob Helberg, undersecretary of State for economic growth, energy, and the environment

Trump is nominating China hawk and tech executive Jacob Helberg to be undersecretary of State for economic growth, energy, and the environment. Helberg, a major donor to Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign, organized the Hill and Valley Forum, which brought together Silicon Valley executives and lawmakers opposed to China’s increasing involvement in the U.S. tech sector. In 2023, then-House Speaker Kevin McCarthy appointed Helberg to the U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission, and Helberg used the position to lobby for a TikTok ban.

In his announcement, Trump said Helberg “will guide State Department policy on Economic statecraft, promoting America’s Economic security and growth, and American technological dominance abroad. Jacob is a successful technology executive, has the knowledge, expertise, and pragmatism to defend America’s Economic interests abroad, and always puts AMERICA FIRST!”

Andrew Ferguson, chair of the Federal Trade Commission

Trump announced that Federal Trade Commission (FTC) commissioner Andrew Ferguson will become the commission’s chair. Ferguson is popular in Republican circles, having previously worked as chief counsel for Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell and Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.). Before he was nominated to the FTC by President Biden in 2023, Ferguson was Virginia’s solicitor general.

Ferguson will succeed Lina Khan, who has earned a reputation as one of the regulator’s most firebrand and progressive leaders, and he will inherit various antitrust lawsuits and ongoing investigations into the tech industry for alleged anticompetitive practices, though he is expected to ease the commission’s antitrust enforcement zeal relative to Khan.

Ferguson recently expressed a desire for the FTC to probe the supposed censorship of conservative viewpoints, suggesting that platforms revealed to be engaging in such censorship should be charged with violating antitrust rules. “Andrew will be the most America First, and pro-innovation FTC Chair in our Country’s History,” Trump said in his announcement.

Mark Paoletta, general counsel for the Office of Management and Budget

Trump announced that Washington lawyer Mark Paoletta will be returning to the Office of Management and Budget as its general counsel. Having held the same role during Trump’s first term, Paoletta will work alongside the to-be-created Department of Government Efficiency “to cut the size of our bloated Government bureaucracy, and root out wasteful and anti-American spending,” according to his new job announcement in which the President-elect said “Mark is a conservative warrior who knows the ‘ins and outs’ of Government.”

Harmeet Dhillon, assistant attorney general for civil rights 

Trump is nominating his 2020 campaign legal advisor Harmeet Dhillon to be assistant attorney general for civil rights at the Justice Department. Dhillon, a practicing Sikh born in India, is known for her conservative track record. She previously represented Berkeley College Republicans when they sued their university after the cancellation of an Ann Coulter speaking event, and she represented a “detransition” activist that sued her medical providers over her gender reassignment treatment. Dhillon and her firm also challenged restrictions California put in place to mitigate the spread of COVID-19.

“Harmeet has stood up consistently to protect our cherished Civil Liberties, including taking on Big Tech for censoring our Free Speech, representing Christians who were prevented from praying together during COVID, and suing corporations who use woke policies to discriminate against their workers,” Trump said in his announcement. “In her new role at the DOJ, Harmeet will be a tireless defender of our Constitutional Rights, and will enforce our Civil Rights and Election Laws FAIRLY and FIRMLY.”

Christopher Landau, deputy secretary of State

President-elect Trump is nominating Christopher Landau, former U.S. ambassador to Mexico, to be deputy secretary of State. “Chris will work closely with our great Secretary of State Nominee, Marco Rubio, to promote our Nation’s security and prosperity through an America First Foreign Policy,” Trump said in an announcement. “Chris served as my Ambassador to Mexico, where he worked tirelessly with our team to reduce illegal migration to the lowest levels in History.” 

Michael Needham, counselor of the Department of State

Trump has tapped the former chief-of-staff of Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), Trump’s nominee for Secretary of State, to reunite with his old boss under a counselor role. “Michael Needham will serve as Counselor of the Department of State,” Trump announced. “Mike has capably served Senator Marco Rubio for many years, and is a key leader in the America First Movement. He has been on the front lines of the fight for the Forgotten Men and Women of America for nearly two decades, and will do a great job at State.”

Michael Anton, director of policy planning at the State Department

Trump has picked Michael Anton, a former Republican speechwriter and private-sector communications professional who was National Security Council spokesman during Trump’s first term, to be director of policy planning at the State Department. “Michael served me loyally and effectively at the National Security Council in my First Term,” Trump said in an announcement. “He has an extensive background in Government, the private sector, and academia. He spent the last eight years explaining what an America First foreign policy truly means.” Anton famously wrote “The Flight 93 Election,” a pro-Trump essay published pseudonymously in 2016 that was viewed by observers as an influential intellectual “justification for authoritarianism.”

Alina Habba, counselor to the President

Trump said he’s chosen his personal lawyer Alina Habba to become counselor to the President. Habba has represented Trump in some of his high-profile cases, including defending Trump against E. Jean Carroll’s defamation lawsuit. “Alina has been a tireless advocate for Justice, a fierce Defender of the Rule of Law, and an invaluable Advisor to my Campaign and Transition Team,” Trump said in his announcement. “She has been unwavering in her loyalty, and unmatched in her resolve - standing with me through numerous “trials,” battles, and countless days in Court. Few understand the Weaponization of the “Injustice” System better than Alina, who has fought relentlessly against the full force of Lawfare with courage and an unshakable commitment to Justice.”

David Perdue, ambassador to China

Trump has nominated former Senator David Perdue (R-Ga.) to be the U.S. ambassador to China.  “He will be instrumental in implementing my strategy to maintain Peace in the region, and a productive working relationship with China’s leaders,” Trump said in his announcement.

Trump has promised to impose tariffs on Chinese goods, though he has also vowed to have a “good relationship” with the world’s second largest economy. 

Read More: How Asia Is Bracing for Trump’s Second Term

Rodney Scott, Customs and Border Protection commissioner

Trump named Rodney Scott as his pick to lead U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), an agency of more than 60,000 employees that oversees border control and security. Scott served as the 24th Chief of the United States Border Patrol, both under Trump and Biden, before his ouster in 2021. He has defended Trump’s hardline policies and was a supporter of Trump’s first-term push to build a border wall. “After retiring, Rodney has continued to educate politicians and the public about the importance of meaningful Border Security,” Trump said in a statement. The role requires Senate confirmation.

Caleb Vitello, acting director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement

Trump said he will appoint Caleb Vitello as acting director of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), the agency tasked with arresting and removing undocumented immigrants. Trump is expected to ramp up immigration enforcement in his second term, promising the mass detention and deportation of undocumented immigrants. Vitello has worked at ICE for over 23 years, currently serving as assistant director of the Office of Firearms and Tactical Programs. “Caleb’s exceptional leadership, extensive experience, and commitment to ICE’s mission make him an excellent choice to implement my efforts to enhance the safety and security of American communities who have been victimized by illegal alien crime,” Trump said in his announcement.

Brandon Judd, ambassador to Chile

Brandon Judd, who was president of the National Border Patrol Council union that represents around 18,000 Border Patrol agents and support personnel, is Trump’s choice for ambassador to Chile. “I have personally known and worked with Brandon over the past nine years,” Trump said in a statement announcing Judd’s nomination. “Brandon helped me develop and implement the most effective Border Security policies in our Nation’s History.”

Tony Salisbury, deputy Homeland Security Advisor at the White House Homeland Security Council

Trump has tapped Anthony Salisbury, special agent in charge of ICE’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Miami, to be his deputy Homeland Security Advisor at the White House Homeland Security Council. “Tony will bring his vast Law Enforcement, counter-narcotics, and counter-cartel experience to the White House where he will serve under Stephen Miller, Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy and Homeland Security Advisor,” Trump said in his announcement.

David Sacks, AI and crypto czar

Longtime venture capitalist and friend of Elon Musk David Sacks will be Trump’s “White House A.I. & Crypto Czar,” Trump said in a post on Truth Social. “David has the knowledge, business experience, intelligence, and pragmatism to MAKE AMERICA GREAT in these two critical technologies,” Trump said, adding that he also appointed Sacks to lead the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology.

Sacks, a former chief operating officer for PayPal, was among Trump’s earliest vocal supporters from Silicon Valley. He hosted a fundraiser for him in San Francisco last June, which helped to amass support from tech moguls and cryptocurrency executives worried about industry overregulation.

Frank Bisignano, Social Security Administration commissioner

Trump has nominated Frank Bisignano, CEO of fintech company Fiserv and Republican donor, to be commissioner of the Social Security Administration. “Frank is a business leader, with a tremendous track record of transforming large corporations,” Trump said in his announcement. “He will be responsible to deliver on the Agency’s commitment to the American People for generations to come!”

Kelly Loeffler, Small Business Administration administrator

Trump nominated former Senator Kelly Loeffler (R-Ga.) to lead the Small Business Administration, which aims to “help Americans start, build and grow businesses.” Loeffler is currently co-chair of Trump’s second inaugural committee, and is married to billionaire Trump donor Jeffrey Sprecher, CEO of Intercontinental Exchange—for which Loeffler used to be the CEO of subsidiary Bakkt.

“Kelly will bring her experience in business and Washington to reduce red tape, and unleash opportunity for our Small Businesses to grow, innovate, and thrive,” Trump said in his announcement. “She will focus on ensuring that SBA is accountable to Taxpayers by cracking down on waste, fraud, and regulatory overreach.”

Billy Long, Internal Revenue Service commissioner

Trump has tapped former Rep. Billy Long (R-Mo.) to head the Internal Revenue Service, signalling that incumbent commissioner Danny Werfel would be expected to vacate the post. Formerly an auctioneer, Long, as a lawmaker from 2011 to 2023, co-sponsored some tax-related bills, including one that would have terminated much of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 and another that would repeal estate taxes. 

After leaving Congress, Long continued tax-related work (his X bio at the time of his selection read: “'Certified Tax & Business Advisor' DM me to save 40% on your taxes”). In a 2023 podcast, he spoke about how he helped businesses file for the COVID-era employee retention tax credit. The IRS had to temporarily stop processing claims for the benefit, which was riddled with fraud.

“I have known Billy since 2011 - He is an extremely hard worker, and respected by all, especially by those who know him in Congress,” Trump said in his announcement. “Taxpayers and the wonderful employees of the IRS will love having Billy at the helm.”

Long’s nomination has already faced some pushback. Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) said Long is “bad news for middle-class taxpayers and a win for ultra-wealthy tax cheats” and that his nomination signals a “weaponization of the tax agency.”

William McGinley, counsel for the Department of Government Efficiency

William Joseph McGinley, who served as White House Cabinet secretary in the first Trump Administration, was initially Trump’s pick to be White House counsel. But Trump reassigned McGinley to work alongside Vivek Ramaswamy and Elon Musk at the so-called Department of Government Efficiency. Trump did not explain the swap, only saying in a statement that this was “something [McGinley] is very passionate about.” 

David Warrington, White House counsel

Trump announced that his campaign’s general counsel David Warrington will be his White House counsel, replacing his initial pick of McGinley. Warrington has represented the President-elect on a number of cases, including in the congressional Jan. 6 investigation.

Monica Crowley, ambassador, assistant secretary of State, and chief of protocol

Trump has nominated Monica Crowley to be ambassador, assistant secretary of State, and chief of protocol. According to Trump, Crowley will be representing the administration in major events such as America’s 250th Birthday in 2026, the FIFA World Cup that same year, and the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. “She will be an extraordinary Representative of our Country,” Trump said in his announcement.

Crowley, a Fox News contributor, served in Trump’s first administration as assistant secretary  for public affairs at the Treasury Department. In 2017, Trump picked her to be senior director of strategic communications at the National Security Council, but she stepped away after being dogged by allegations of plagiarizing her doctorate thesis and her 2012 book. Crowley claimed that the allegations were a “political hit job.”

Paul Atkins, chair of the Securities and Exchange Commission

Paul Atkins, a former commissioner at the Securities and Exchange Commission, is Trump’s choice to chair the agency, replacing Garry Gensler. If confirmed, the pro-business Atkins is expected to loosen the regulatory approach of the commission. Atkins is also notably a cryptocurrency advocate, and the crypto industry has long wanted to replace Gensler, who led the Biden administration’s crypto crackdown.

“Paul is a proven leader for common sense regulations,” Trump said in his announcement. “He believes in the promise of robust, innovative capital markets that are responsive to the needs of Investors, & that provide capital to make our Economy the best in the World. He also recognizes that digital assets & other innovations are crucial to Making America Greater than Ever Before.”

Gail Slater, assistant attorney general for the antitrust division

Trump has picked Gail Slater to be assistant attorney general for the Justice Department’s antitrust division. Slater, who was recently an economic adviser to Vice President-elect JD Vance’s Senate office, previously served in Trump’s first presidential term as a tech policy adviser at the National Economic Council. If confirmed, Slater is expected to help lead Trump’s promised crackdown on Big Tech.

“In her new role, Gail will help ensure that our competition laws are enforced, both vigorously and FAIRLY, with clear rules that facilitate, rather than stifle, the ingenuity of our greatest companies,” Trump said in his announcement. 

Michael William Faulkender, deputy secretary of the Treasury

Trump has tapped University of Maryland finance professor and chief economist at the Trump-allied America First Policy Institute Michael William Faulkender to be deputy secretary of the Treasury, second-in-command to Secretary-designate Scott Bessent. In Trump’s first term, Faulkender served as assistant secretary for economic policy at the department under then-Secretary Steven Mnuchin. Faulkender led the department’s efforts to implement the Paycheck Protection Program, a pandemic-era program that offered forgivable loans to small businesses. 

“Mike is a distinguished Economist and Policy practitioner who will drive our America First Agenda,” Trump said in his announcement. “He will help Treasury Secretary Nominee Scott Bessent usher in a new Golden Age for the United States by delivering a Great Economic Boom for all Americans.”

Jared Isaacman, National Aeronautics and Space Administration administrator

Trump has chosen billionaire entrepreneur and private astronaut Jared Isaacman to lead the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). Isaacman, founder of payment technology firm Shift4 Payments, is known for his groundbreaking space missions and close ties to Musk and his company SpaceX. If confirmed, Isaacman, 41, will succeed former astronaut and former Senator Bill Nelson.

“Jared’s passion for Space, astronaut experience, and dedication to pushing the boundaries of exploration, unlocking the mysteries of the universe, and advancing the new Space economy, make him ideally suited to lead NASA into a bold new Era,” Trump said in his announcement.

Adam Boehler, special presidential envoy for hostage affairs

Trump has selected Rubicon Founders CEO Adam Boehler to be the special presidential envoy for hostage affairs. In 2019, during Trump’s first term, Boehler became the first CEO of the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation. Boehler was also alongside Jared Kushner a key negotiator of the 2020 Abraham Accords, a series of international deals that normalized relations between Israel and other Arab states. In his announcement, Trump touted how Boehler has extensive experience handling complex negotiations, including with the Taliban. “Adam will work tirelessly to bring our Great American Citizens HOME,” Trump said.

Daniel P. Driscoll, Secretary of the Army

Trump has nominated Daniel P. Driscoll, a former soldier and Iraq War veteran as well as a close friend of Vice President-elect JD Vance, to be Secretary of the Army. If confirmed, Driscoll will be tasked with addressing the Army’s low recruitments and leading efforts to modernize weapons systems. “Dan will be a fearless and relentless fighter for America’s Soldiers and the America First agenda,” Trump said in his announcement.

Peter Navarro, senior counselor for trade and manufacturing

Trump has named Peter Navarro, his trade adviser during his first term, to take on a senior counselor role for trade and manufacturing. An economist with a doctorate from Harvard and a former Democrat, Navarro had long criticized U.S. trade policies with China and is a staunch supporter of Trump’s protectionist agenda and a contributor to the Project 2025 transition playbook.

“He did a superb job for the American People in my First Term. Peter will do even better as Senior Counselor to protect American Workers, and truly Make American Manufacturing Great Again,” Trump said in a statement.

Navarro is a notable Trump loyalist, having claimed the results of the 2020 election were “rigged” and helped to devise the “Green Bay Sweep”—a strategy aimed at delaying the 2020 election certification by pressuring Republican lawmakers and former Vice President Mike Pence to challenge the results. In 2022, he was subpoenaed by the House Select Committee investigating the January 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol but refused to comply, citing executive privilege invoked by Trump. He served a four-month prison sentence earlier this year for contempt of Congress.

Warren Stephens, ambassador to the U.K.

Trump says he will nominate businessman and Republican mega-donor Warren Stephens to be his ambassador to the U.K. Stephens had previously donated to efforts to stop Trump from securing the Republican presidential nomination in 2016, according to Federal Election Commission filings. He also poured money into the campaigns of other Republican presidential candidates like Nikki Haley and Asa Hutchinson in the latest election cycle. But as it became clearer that Trump would be the nominee, Stephens donated at least $2 million to Make America Great Again Inc, a pro-Trump Super PAC, this year.

“Warren has always dreamed of serving the United States full time,” Trump said in his announcement. “I am thrilled that he will now have that opportunity as the top Diplomat, representing the U.S.A. to one of America’s most cherished and beloved Allies.”

Massad Boulos, senior adviser on Arab and Middle Eastern affairs

Trump announced on his social media platform Truth Social that he has picked Massad Boulos—a billionaire and the father-in-law of his daughter Tiffany Trump—to serve as his adviser on Arab and Middle Eastern affairs. Boulos is a prominent Lebanese-American businessman who supported Trump's campaign throughout 2024. Tiffany married Boulos’ son, Michael, in 2022.

“He has been a longtime proponent of Republican and Conservative values, an asset to my Campaign, and was instrumental in building tremendous new coalitions with the Arab American Community,” Trump said of his pick, Boulos. “Massad is a dealmaker, and an unwavering supporter of PEACE in the Middle East.”

Kash Patel, FBI director

Trump announced via a post on Truth Social that he has tapped Kashyap “Kash” Patel—an attorney and former Chief of Staff to the then Acting Secretary of Defense Christopher Miller—as director of the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI). Patel also served as an aide to former representative and House Intelligence Committee Chair Devin Nunes during the inquiry into the FBI’s investigation of Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election.

“Kash is a brilliant lawyer, investigator, and ‘America First’ fighter who has spent his career exposing corruption, defending Justice, and protecting the American People,” Trump said in his social media post. “He played a pivotal role in uncovering the Russia, Russia, Russia Hoax, standing as an advocate for truth, accountability, and the Constitution.”

Read More: Meet Kashyap ‘Kash’ Patel, Trump’s Nomination for FBI Director

If confirmed, Patel would replace FBI Director Christopher Wray, who was appointed by Trump in 2017. Wray would need to resign or be fired to create a vacancy, since he has three years remaining in his 10-year term.

This nomination is in line with Trump’s plans to do a major overhaul of federal organizations, as Patel is known for his criticism of the FBI, and outlined in his 2023 book Government Gangsters his plans “to defeat the deep state.” Patel’s appointment will need to be confirmed by the Senate.

[WITHDRAWN] Chad Chronister, administrator of the DEA

Trump announced via Truth Social that he has nominated Florida Sheriff Chad Chronister as administrator of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). In 2017, Chronister was appointed by then Gov. Rick Scott as Sheriff of Hillsborough County, and has since been re-elected twice to the position.

The DEA resides under the Justice Department and, if confirmed, Chronister would take a lead in enforcing the country’s drug laws. Trump wrote in his post that Chronister will work with his new Attorney General nomination, Pam Bondi, “to secure the Border, stop the flow of Fentanyl, and other illegal Drugs, across the Southern Border.”

But in a post on X days after the announcement, Chronister said he was withdrawing from consideration. “There is more work to be done for the citizens of Hillsborough County and a lot of initiatives I am committed to fulfilling,” he said. He called Trump’s nomination “the honor of a lifetime.” Before withdrawing, Chronister had received backlash from conservatives for his actions during the COVID-19 lockdowns and previous comments on immigration enforcement.

Charles Kushner, ambassador to France

Trump announced via Truth Social that he was nominating Charles Kushner, the father of his son-in-law Jared Kushner, to serve as the U.S. ambassador to France. The role requires Senate confirmation. Charles is a real estate developer and founder of Kushner Companies. In his announcement post, Trump called Charles a “tremendous business leader, philanthropist, and dealmaker.” He also mentioned his son-in-law Jared, who is married to his daughter Ivanka, commending his work during the first Trump Administration.

Charles was previously pardoned by Trump in December 2020, years after he pleaded guilty to illegal campaign contributions, tax evasion, and witness tampering.

Keith Kellogg, special envoy for Ukraine and Russia

Trump announced in a post on Truth Social that Keith Kellogg, a retired U.S. Army lieutenant general, will be taking on a newly-created role of special envoy for Ukraine and Russia. In Trump’s first term, Kellogg served as chief of staff for the White House National Security Council (NSC) and National Security Advisor to then-Vice President Mike Pence. Generally, special envoy appointments since 2023 must be confirmed by the Senate.

Trump has promised that he would end the war in Ukraine, though he hasn’t said how. In June, Kellogg told Reuters of a plan he and fellow former NSC official Fred Fleitz presented to Trump that entailed withholding weapons from Kyiv unless it enters peace talks with Moscow.

“Keith has led a distinguished Military and Business career, including serving in highly sensitive National Security roles in my first Administration,” Trump said in his announcement. “He was with me right from the beginning! Together, we will secure PEACE THROUGH STRENGTH, and Make America, and the World, SAFE AGAIN!”

Jim O’Neill, deputy secretary of Health and Human Services

Trump has tapped Jim O’Neill, an investor and close associate of megadonor Peter Thiel, to be Robert F. Kennedy’s No. 2 at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Despite having no medical background, O’Neill previously held multiple HHS roles, including principal associate deputy secretary, during George W. Bush’s administration. He was a former acting CEO of the Thiel Foundation and was previously considered by Trump to head the Food and Drug Administration in 2016, according to Bloomberg.

“Jim and RFK Jr. will fight in unison to ensure every American, and especially our most precious resource, our children, will live long and healthy lives and, Make America Great and Healthy Again!” Trump said in a statement announcing O’Neill’s nomination.

Jay Bhattacharya, director of the National Institutes of Health

Trump has picked Stanford University professor Jay Bhattacharya to lead the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Bhattacharya, a health economist, was one of the authors of the Great Barrington Declaration, a 2020 manifesto that criticized COVID-19 lockdowns for causing irreparable harm and that championed “herd immunity” instead. Bhattacharya called the lockdowns “the single biggest public health mistake.”

Trump, in a statement announcing his nomination, said Bhattacharya will work with Health Secretary-designate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and “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.”

John Phelan, Secretary of the Navy

Trump tapped businessman and art collector John Phelan to be Secretary of the Navy. The founder and chairman of investment firm Rugger Management, Phelan was a major contributor to and fundraiser for Trump’s campaign. Since 2018, Phelan has been on the board of Spirit of America, a non-partisan non-profit group that aims to support U.S. troops and diplomats. If confirmed, Phelan will be responsible for over 1 million sailors, Marines, reservists, and civilian personnel under the Department of the Navy.

Trump touted Phelan’s “intelligence and leadership” and called him “A true Champion of American Enterprise and Ingenuity” in a statement announcing his nomination.“He will put the business of the U.S. Navy above all else,” Trump said.

Kevin Hassett, National Economic Council director

Trump is bringing back his former senior advisor, Kevin Hassett, as the National Economic Council director, a role that does not require Senate confirmation. Hassett served as chair of the Council of Economic Advisers for two years during Trump’s first term. He briefly returned to government in 2020 to help with the COVID-19 pandemic response.

Trump, in a statement, touted Hassett’s role in crafting and passing the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017. “Together, we will renew and improve our record Tax Cuts, and ensure that we have Fair Trade with Countries that have taken advantage of the United States in the past,” Trump said. “Kevin will also play a key role strengthening our Economic relationships with Allies, new and old, while also securing Prosperity for the American People.”

Jamieson Greer, U.S. Trade Representative

Trump has chosen lawyer Jamieson Greer to become the U.S. Trade Representative. Greer served as former U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer’s chief of staff during Trump’s first term. In his nomination announcement, Trump said that Greer “played a key role” in imposing tariffs on China and others “to combat unfair Trade practices.”

Greer told the New York Times in June that Trump officials viewed tariffs as a means to support U.S. manufacturing jobs by remediating unfair trade practices and that other countries also have unfair trade and tax policies. “If you level out that playing field, it makes it so that Americans don’t have to compete unfairly,” he said.

Vince Haley, Domestic Policy Council director

Trump has named Vince Haley, who served as director of policy and speechwriting on Trump's campaign and was also part of the speechwriting team in his first administration, to lead the Domestic Policy Council. In a statement announcing his pick of Haley, which does not require Senate confirmation, Trump outlined his domestic policy priorities, saying: “Together, we will defeat Inflation, rapidly bring down Prices, secure the Southern Border, cut Taxes and Regulations, reignite Growth, build the Greatest Economy in History and, MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!”

Brooke Rollins, Secretary of Agriculture

Trump has tapped Brooke Rollins, the cofounder and CEO of the America First Policy Institute, to head the Department of Agriculture. The Wall Street Journal reported that her nomination was unexpected, given other candidates had relatively deeper agricultural background, though Rollins has a degree in agricultural development. Rollins served during Trump’s first term as director of the Office of American Innovation and acting director of the Domestic Policy Council.

“From her upbringing in the small and Agriculture-centered town of Glen Rose, Texas, to her years of leadership involvement with Future Farmers of America and 4H, to her generational Family Farming background, to guiding her four kids in their show cattle careers, Brooke has a practitioner’s experience, along with deep Policy credentials in both Nonprofit and Government leadership at the State and National levels,” Trump said in a statement announcing his pick.

Scott Turner, Secretary of Housing and Urban Development

Trump has nominated former NFL player Scott Turner to lead the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and address the country’s housing affordability crisis. Currently, Turner serves as chair of Center for Education Opportunity at the America First Policy Institute. During Trump’s first term, Turner served as executive director of the White House Opportunity and Revitalization Council, overseeing federal opportunity zones, which attempt to spur economic growth and job creation in low-income communities while providing tax benefits to investors. His work there “help[ed] to lead an Unprecedented Effort that Transformed our Country’s most distressed communities,” Trump said in a statement announcing Turner’s nomination.

Marty Makary, Food and Drug Administration commissioner

Trump has selected Dr. Marty Makary, a surgical oncologist at Johns Hopkins University, to serve as commissioner for the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). If confirmed by the Senate, he will work closely with Trump’s Health Secretary-designate Robert F. Kennedy Jr., whose nomination Makary recently voiced support for.

In his statement on Makary’s nomination, Trump vowed that Kennedy Jr. and Makary would “properly evaluate harmful chemicals poisoning our Nation's food supply and drugs and biologics being given to our Nation's youth, so that we can finally address the Childhood Chronic Disease Epidemic.”

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Makary became an outspoken voice against vaccine mandates, calling them a “complete dismissal of natural immunity.”

Dave Weldon, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention director

Trump has chosen physician, veteran, and former congressman Dave Weldon (R-Fla.) to run the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In his announcement of his pick, Trump emphasized Weldon’s work to ban patents on human embryos (used in stem cell research) in Congress, and wrote that Weldon has “American Family Values” and will prioritize “Transparency, Competence and High Standards” at the CDC.

While in Congress, in 2007 Weldon introduced a bill that would move responsibility for vaccine safety research from the CDC to an independent agency within the Department of Health and Human Services. (CDC director will now require Senate confirmation after new legislation.)

Read More: Who Decides Who Leads U.S. Health Agencies?

Alex Wong, deputy national security advisor

Trump is bringing back Alex Wong, a former deputy special representative for North Korea and deputy assistant secretary for North Korea in the State Department’s bureau of East Asian and Pacific affairs during Trump’s first term, to be part of his senior national security staff in his second term. In his announcement, Trump said that Wong helped negotiate his summit with North Korea’s Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un and that Wong led the State Department’s implementation of the Free and Open Indo-Pacific Strategy.

Sebastian Gorka, senior director for counterterrorism

Another White House alum returning for Trump’s second term is conservative media commentator Sebastian Gorka, whom the President-elect picked to be a deputy assistant and the senior director for counterterrorism. Born to Hungarian parents in the U.K., Gorka is a “tireless advocate for the America First Agenda and the MAGA Movement,” Trump said in his statement announcing Gorka’s position.

Gorka served as a strategist in Trump’s first term, leaving the post in August 2017 following the arrival of then chief of staff John Kelly and the ouster of Steve Bannon, whom Gorka was closely aligned with. Gorka is known for his incendiary remarks against Islam and its followers, and he is reportedly “widely disdained” within his field, even among fellow conservatives. The Washington Post reported that Michael Anton, a former communications and national security official in Trump’s first administration, removed himself from contention for a deputy national security adviser role in the second term after learning he would have to work with Gorka.

John Bolton, Trump’s former national security adviser turned critic, called Gorka a “con man” in an interview on CNN.

Janette Nesheiwat, Surgeon General

Trump nominated physician and Fox News contributor Janette Nesheiwat to be the next Surgeon General, a key health information leader for the public and public health officers. Currently, Nesheiwat serves as one of the medical directors of CityMD, a network of urgent care centers in New York and New Jersey. Her sister, Julia Nesheiwat, served as homeland security advisor during Trump’s first term, and Julia’s husband, Mike Waltz, is a Republican congressman from Florida who has been tapped to serve as Trump’s national security advisor.

“Dr. Nesheiwat is a fierce advocate and strong communicator for preventive medicine and public health,” Trump said in a statement. “She is committed to ensuring that Americans have access to affordable, quality healthcare, and believes in empowering individuals to take charge of their health to live longer, healthier lives.”

Lori Chavez-DeRemer, Secretary of Labor

Trump has tapped outgoing congresswoman Lori Chavez-DeRemer (R-Ore.) to run the Labor Department. Chavez-DeRemer narrowly lost her re-election bid earlier this month. During her time in Congress she was one of only a few House Republicans to support the PRO Act, a major pro-union bill, and she also served on the Education and the Workforce Committee.

Chavez-DeRemer has support from key labor unions and figures including Teamsters president and Trump supporter Sean O’Brien. The AFL-CIO, however, gave her a lifetime score of 10%, with regards to her support for pro-union legislation. Multiple business groups have signaled their opposition to Trump’s choice of DeRemer.

“Lori’s strong support from both the Business and Labor communities will ensure that the Labor Department can unite Americans of all backgrounds behind our Agenda for unprecedented National Success - Making America Richer, Wealthier, Stronger and more Prosperous than ever before,” Trump said in a statement announcing DeRemer’s nomination.

Russell Vought, Office of Management and Budget director

Trump announced that he will nominate Russell Vought, a contributor to the conservative presidential transition playbook Project 2025 that Trump distanced himself from during his campaign, to once again be the director of the Office of Management and Budget. “He did an excellent job serving in this role in my First Term,” Trump said in a statement, adding, “Russ knows exactly how to dismantle the Deep State and end Weaponized Government, and he will help us return Self Governance to the People. We will restore fiscal sanity to our Nation, and unleash the American People to new levels of Prosperity and Ingenuity.”

Scott Bessent, Secretary of the Treasury

Trump has appointed hedge fund manager Scott Bessent to run the Treasury Department in his second-term administration. Bessent is the founder and CEO of hedge fund firm Key Square Group and previously supported Democrats before turning to support Republican candidates and eventually Trump, though he was not in Trump’s orbit during his first term. Bessent is known to support tariffs and has also backed extending the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017. He would also be the country’s first openly gay Treasury Secretary.

“As a lifelong Champion of Main Street America and American Industry, Scott will support my Policies that will drive U.S. Competitiveness, and stop unfair Trade imbalances, work to create an Economy that places Growth at the forefront, especially through our coming World Energy Dominance,” Trump wrote in a statement announcing Bessent’s nomination.

Read More: Why CEOs Are Cheering Donald Trump’s Pick for Treasury Secretary

Pam Bondi, Attorney General

Trump has tapped former Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi to run the Department of Justice, replacing his earlier nominee, former Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.), who withdrew from consideration after facing scrutiny over alleged sexual misconduct involving at least one minor.

Bondi, a longtime Trump loyalist, served on the executive committee of his 2016 transition team, and during Trump’s first term, she was a member of Trump’s first-impeachment defense team. Since 2021, she has led the legal arm of the America First Policy Institute, a think tank formed to promote Trump’s agenda and plan for his second term.

“For too long, the partisan Department of Justice has been weaponized against me and other Republicans - Not anymore,” Trump said in a statement announcing Bondi’s nomination. “Pam will refocus the DOJ to its intended purpose of fighting Crime, and Making America Safe Again. I have known Pam for many years — She is smart and tough, and is an AMERICA FIRST Fighter, who will do a terrific job as Attorney General!”

Trump had previously nominated Gaetz for the role of U.S. Attorney General, prompting Gaetz to resign from Congress ahead of the release of an ethics probe that was then put on hold. (It’s not yet clear whether the committee’s report will be made public. Gaetz has denied any wrongdoing.) But the allegations followed Gaetz, who is deeply unpopular among many members of his own party, and in a post on X, he announced: “It is clear that my confirmation was unfairly becoming a distraction to the critical work of the Trump/Vance Transition. There is no time to waste on a needlessly protracted Washington scuffle, thus I'll be withdrawing my name from consideration to serve as Attorney General. Trump's DOJ must be in place and ready on Day 1.”

In a post on Truth Social after Gaetz announced his withdrawal, Trump said he “greatly appreciate[s]” Gaetz’s efforts to get Senate approval but “has much respect” for his decision to step aside.

Pete Hoekstra, ambassador to Canada

Trump has nominated former congressman Peter Hoekstra (R-Mich.) to become the U.S. ambassador to Canada. Hoekstra served during Trump’s first term as the ambassador to the Netherlands and was a prominent campaign supporter as chair of the Michigan Republican Party. “In my Second Term, Pete will help me once again put AMERICA FIRST,” Trump said in a statement announcing his pick.

Matt Whitaker, NATO ambassador

Trump has named former acting Attorney General Matt Whitaker to become the country’s ambassador to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). In his statement announcing his pick, Trump said Whitaker is “a strong warrior and loyal Patriot, who will ensure the United States' interests are advanced and defended. Matt will strengthen relationships with our NATO Allies, and stand firm in the face of threats to Peace and Stability - He will put AMERICA FIRST.” Trump has shown dubious commitment to the military alliance, criticizing other members for not contributing as much as the U.S.

Whitaker, a former U.S. attorney in Iowa who was Attorney General Jeff Sessions’ chief of staff until Trump fired Sessions and elevated Whitaker, has not previously served in a role focused on foreign policy. He is, however, a close ally of the President-elect, having vocally criticized special counsel Robert Mueller’s investigation of Russian interference in the 2016 election and having come to Trump’s defense during his first impeachment proceedings, claiming: “Abuse of power is not a crime.”

Linda McMahon, Secretary of Education

Trump has tapped his first-term Small Business Administration (SBA) administrator Linda McMahon to run the Department of Education during his second term. In a statement announcing his selection, Trump cited McMahon’s leadership credentials as a co-chair of his transition team alongside Commerce Secretary-designate Howard Lutnick and a chair of the board of the America First Policy Institute. McMahon, the former CEO and co-founder of WWE and a major Republican donor, has also served on the Connecticut Board of Education and on the board of trustees at Sacred Heart University in Connecticut, a state where she twice unsuccessfully ran for U.S. Senate.

Trump promised during his campaign to dismantle the Department of Education. “We will send Education BACK TO THE STATES,” he said in his statement announcing McMahon’s nomination, “and Linda will spearhead that effort.”

Mehmet Oz, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) administrator

Trump has chosen celebrity doctor Mehmet Oz to run the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), a federal agency within the Health and Human Services (HHS) Department that provides health coverage to millions of Americans. In a statement announcing the pick, Trump said that Oz (known on TV as “Dr. Oz”) would work closely with Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a vaccine skeptic and conspiracy theorist who has been nominated to run HHS, to “take on the illness industrial complex, and all the horrible chronic diseases left in its wake.”

“Our broken Healthcare System harms everyday Americans, and crushes our Country’s budget,” Trump said, adding that “Dr. Oz will be a leader in incentivizing Disease Prevention.” Oz would need to be confirmed by the Senate.

As CMS Administrator, Oz would oversee programs including Medicare, Medicaid, the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), and the Affordable Care Act (ACA) health insurance Marketplaces. During his unsuccessful run for Pennsylvania’s open Senate seat two years ago, Oz pushed for “Medicare Advantage For All,” which would allow seniors to choose privately run health insurance plans.

Early in the pandemic, Oz pushed unproven theories about COVID-19 cures, including the anti-malaria drug hydroxychloroquine as treatment, which caught Trump’s eye.

Before entering politics, he was a heart surgeon and health expert on Oprah Winfrey’s show. Oz later appeared on his own show, known for providing medical tips and leaning into so-called alternative and complementary medicine. Oz is not the first television fixture to be selected for a key role in the Administration; Pete Hegseth (Defense secretary) is co-host of Fox & Friends.

Howard Lutnick, Secretary of Commerce

Trump announced that he has selected Howard Lutnick, the billionaire CEO of Cantor Fitzgerald, to serve as his Secretary of Commerce. A vocal supporter of Trump’s economic policies, Lutnick has been an influential figure within the President-elect’s circle, advising on trade and economic matters throughout the transition process. He won the endorsement of Elon Musk, the billionaire CEO of Tesla in Trump’s inner circle, for Treasury Secretary, but on Tuesday Trump tapped him for Commerce instead. In a statement, Trump praised Lutnick as a “dynamic force on Wall Street” and credited him with building a robust system to staff the incoming administration.

If confirmed by the Senate, Lutnick, 63, would oversee an agency tasked with expanding U.S. economic growth, boosting domestic industries, regulating artificial intelligence, and managing the implementation of the 2022 CHIPS and Science Act, which provides subsidies to U.S. semiconductor manufacturers. It’s unclear whether the Trump Administration will proceed with disbursing the funds agreed to under current Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo, as the Commerce Department has yet to release much of the allocated money despite having signed agreements with U.S. chipmakers. Lutnick would also inherit the Biden Administration’s broadband expansion initiative aimed at providing internet access to at least 6.25 million households by 2025.

Given his extensive business holdings, Lutnick could face scrutiny over his finances and potential conflicts of interest during the confirmation process. In addition to being CEO of Cantor Fitzgerald, Lutnick is chairman of BGC Group Inc, a brokerage company, and of Newmark Group, a commercial real estate company.

Sean Duffy, Secretary of Transportation

Trump has tapped former congressman from Wisconsin and TV personality Sean Duffy to run the Transportation Department.

Upon the announcement of his nomination Duffy, 53, parted ways with Fox, where he was a co-host of The Bottom Line on Fox Business and a contributor on Fox News. A former outdoor games athlete, Duffy has also worked as a commentator on ESPN and in the 1990s appeared on several MTV reality shows, where he met his wife. He then served for eight years as a prosecutor followed by eight years as a U.S. representative after his election in 2010 as part of the conservative populist Tea Party wave. Duffy left Congress in 2019 to focus on family health matters. Trump encouraged him to run for governor of Wisconsin in 2022, but he declined.

If confirmed to the post, Duffy will succeed former South Bend, Ind., Mayor Pete Buttigieg to head a department that oversees highways, railroads, aviation and other transportation systems, with a budget of about $110 billion. In his statement announcing the nomination, Trump said Duffy “will prioritize Excellence, Competence, Competitiveness and Beauty when rebuilding America’s highways, tunnels, bridges and airports. He will ensure our ports and dams serve our Economy without compromising our National Security, and he will make our skies safe again by eliminating DEI for pilots and air traffic controllers.”

Brendan Carr, chair of the Federal Communications Commission

Trump announced that Brendan Carr will become chair of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the regulator of interstate and international communications. Since Carr is already on the commission, he can assume control when Trump takes office in January.

Carr, whom Trump first nominated to the commission in 2017 and who has previously served as its general counsel, wrote the FCC chapter of the Heritage Foundation’s controversial Project 2025 presidential transition playbook. In it, he argued that the FCC should expand its oversight, aim to rein in Big Tech, ban TikTok in the U.S. on national security grounds, and roll back protections for tech companies under Section 230 of the Communications Act. “Facebook, Google, Apple, Microsoft & others have played central roles in the censorship cartel,” he posted on X. “The censorship cartel must be dismantled.”

Carr is also publicly aligned with Elon Musk. He criticized the FCC’s refusal to finalize nearly $900 million in rural broadband subsidies for Musk’s satellite internet company Starlink, and his appointment could open up federal funding for it.

“Commissioner Carr is a warrior for Free Speech, and has fought against the regulatory Lawfare that has stifled Americans’ Freedoms, and held back our Economy,” Trump said in a statement. “He will end the regulatory onslaught that has been crippling America’s Job Creators and Innovators, and ensure that the FCC delivers for rural America.”

Chris Wright, Secretary of Energy

Chris Wright, Trump’s nominee to run the Department of Energy, is the CEO of Denver-based fracking company Liberty Energy who has downplayed the effects of the climate crisis and is likely to be a vocal player in the administration against measures that aim to cut carbon emissions—if his appointment is confirmed by the Senate.

In a LinkedIn video posted a year ago, Wright said: “There is no climate crisis, and we’re not in the midst of an energy transition either.” In a May petroleum conference, Wright said that climate change “should be treated honestly and evaluated as trade-offs not as a religion or a cult, which unfortunately it's become.” In October, he acknowledged that climate change is a “real background phenomenon” that is “wildly misrepresented for political, media, all sorts of other reasons.”

Wright, who has no prior political experience but was reportedly pushed for the role by Trump donor Harold Hamm, also sits on the Board of Directors for nuclear power start-up Oklo Inc. In the statement announcing Wright’s selection, Trump said Wright will also be a member of the new National Energy Council which will involve multiple departments and agencies and will focus on establishing “U.S. ENERGY DOMINANCE.”

Will Scharf, White House staff secretary

Trump selected another of his personal legal defense team, William Owen Scharf, to join his administration. Scharf will take on the post of White House Staff Secretary and assistant to the President. Scharf represented Trump in his federal election interference case and his presidential immunity case, and he previously worked both in and out of the government during Trump’s first term on securing the confirmations of Supreme Court nominees Brett Kavanaugh and Amy Coney Barrett. Scharf, a former prosecutor, ran for Missouri Attorney General earlier this year but fell short in the GOP primary.

Steven Cheung, communications director

Trump’s campaign spokesperson, Steven Cheung, was named White House communications director, taking on a post that saw high turnover during the first Trump administration—with Trump having six during his first term. Cheung also worked on Trump’s first campaign and was director of strategic response during his first term. Prior to that, he worked as a spokesperson for the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC).

Sergio Gor, director of the Presidential Personnel Office

Sergio Gor, who co-founded a conservative publishing house with Trump’s son Donald Trump Jr. and ran a super PAC that spent tens of millions of dollars in support of Trump’s campaign, will lead the Presidential Personnel Office—which is responsible for helping to recruit, vet, and nominate some 4,000 political appointees throughout government.

Karoline Leavitt, White House press secretary

Trump’s campaign spokesperson Karoline Leavitt will become the main liaison between members of the press and the incoming President. Leavitt, 27, will be the youngest-ever White House press secretary and the sixth woman in a row to hold the role. She was assistant press secretary during Trump’s first term. In 2022, she ran for Congress to represent a New Hampshire district but lost to Democratic incumbent Rep. Chris Pappas.

“Karoline is smart, tough, and has proven to be a highly effective communicator,” Trump said in a statement. “I have the utmost confidence she will excel at the podium, and help deliver our message to the American People as we, Make America Great Again.”

Doug Burgum, Secretary of Interior

Trump has tapped North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum to lead the Department of the Interior in his upcoming Administration, elevating (if confirmed) a former Republican presidential primary rival turned staunch ally and even onetime running mate contender. The announcement was first made during an America First Policy Institute Gala at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort on Nov. 14, following speculation about Burgum’s future role in the Administration. “He’s going to head the Department of Interior, and it’s going to be fantastic,” Trump said.

The next day, Trump formally announced his selection in a statement, saying that Burgum will also head the new National Energy Council and have a seat on the National Security Council, a position not typically granted to the Interior Secretary. “Doug will be a key leader in ushering in a new ‘Golden Age of American Prosperity’ and World Peace,” Trump said.

Burgum’s selection to head the Interior Department has raised eyebrows due to his lack of direct experience in environmental policy or natural resource management. However, his business background—he’s a former Microsoft executive—and ties to the energy sector could make him an attractive choice for an Administration eager to prioritize energy independence and deregulation. A former software entrepreneur, Burgum sold his tech company to Microsoft in 2001 for $1.1 billion and spent several years as a senior vice president at the tech giant. His business acumen and relationships with key players in the energy industry have positioned him as a figure who could help advance Trump’s pro-energy, pro-business agenda. Burgum’s nomination would bring a decidedly corporate flair to the Department of the Interior, an agency that oversees the nation’s public lands and natural resources.

Doug Collins, Secretary for Veterans Affairs

Trump nominated Doug Collins, the former Republican congressman from Georgia, to lead the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), a critical post tasked with overseeing the welfare of the nation’s more than 15 million veterans. Collins, a staunch Trump ally and former ranking member of the House Judiciary Committee, has shown unwavering loyalty to Trump, particularly during the impeachment proceedings in the House and the fallout from the 2020 election. Collins was an Air Force Reserve chaplain who served in Iraq.

Should he be confirmed in his new role, Collins will inherit a department grappling with both budget shortfalls and a controversial electronic health records overhaul that has been plagued by delays and safety concerns. The VA’s responsibility for providing care to veterans exposed to toxic substances, such as Agent Orange, was expanded by bipartisan legislation in 2022. In a statement on social media, Collins pledged to streamline operations, cut regulations, and address corruption within the department, promising to deliver “world class care” to veterans. “Together, we’ll make the VA work for those who fought for us,” he said.

John Sauer, Solicitor General

Trump has selected John Sauer, a key member of his legal defense team, to serve as the next U.S. Solicitor General. A former federal prosecutor and Missouri's Solicitor General from 2017 to 2023, is perhaps best known for his successful defense of Trump in a landmark Supreme Court case securing presidential immunity. The ruling, which found that a sitting President could not be prosecuted for official acts, was a critical victory for Trump amid ongoing legal challenges related to the 2020 election. Sauer had also urged the Supreme Court to intervene to keep Trump in power by challenging the 2020 election results in several crucial swing states.

If confirmed as Solicitor General, Sauer will represent the federal government in key Supreme Court cases, including contentious matters involving transgender rights and gun control. “John is a deeply accomplished, masterful appellate attorney, who clerked for Justice Antonin Scalia in the United States Supreme Court, served as Solicitor General of Missouri for six years, and has extensive experience practicing before the U.S. Supreme Court and other Appellate Courts,” Trump said in a statement. The nomination reflects Trump’s deep reliance on his inner circle of legal allies, particularly those who have defended him against multiple investigations.

Todd Blanche, deputy attorney general

Trump has picked his personal lawyer Todd Blanche to serve as deputy attorney general. The nomination is a significant move within Trump’s strategy of placing loyal allies in top Justice Department roles. Blanche, who spent years as a federal prosecutor in Manhattan, is credited with playing a pivotal role in defending Trump in several high-profile cases, including as the lead attorney in the New York hush-money trial that resulted in Trump’s conviction and in the cases related to his handling of classified documents and efforts to challenge the 2020 election results.

In his new role, Blanche would oversee the daily operations of the Justice Department, manage its policy priorities, and help advise Attorney General Matt Gaetz if he’s confirmed by the Senate.

Emil Bove, principal associate deputy attorney general

Trump has selected Emil Bove to serve as principal associate deputy attorney general. A former prosecutor in the Southern District of New York, Bove worked alongside Blanche on Trump’s defense team in the Manhattan hush-money case and the federal investigations into mishandling classified documents and election subversion. Bove joins a growing group of Trump allies in key legal positions, reinforcing the President-elect’s strategy of relying on trusted figures in his upcoming Administration.

“Emil is a tough and strong attorney, who will be a crucial part of the Justice Department, rooting out corruption and crime,” Trump said in a statement.

Jay Clayton, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York

Trump has selected Jay Clayton, the former chair of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), to lead the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York (SDNY), an influential post known for its aggressive pursuit of high-profile financial and political corruption cases. If confirmed, Clayton, who has no criminal prosecution experience, would inherit a number of high-profile cases, including investigations into New York City Mayor Eric Adams and the prosecution of former New Jersey Senator Bob Menendez, a Democrat. Trump described Clayton as a “highly respected business leader, counsel, and public servant,” pointing to his years of experience in the financial world, where he was known for his work in mergers and acquisitions before taking over at the SEC in 2017.

Clayton’s tenure at the SEC was largely characterized by a pro-business approach, which included efforts to roll back certain regulations on Wall Street and to develop clearer guidelines for cryptocurrency investments. His leadership also saw significant enforcement actions, including a high-profile case against Tesla CEO Elon Musk, who will co-lead the new Department of Government Efficiency, for misleading statements about taking the company private. This will be Clayton's second attempt at taking the SDNY post, after a contentious attempt in 2020 to replace Geoffrey Berman, who held the position during part of Trump’s first term. At that time, his nomination faced resistance from both inside the Justice Department and from Democratic lawmakers who feared political interference, particularly because SDNY had been investigating Trump’s associates, including his former lawyers Michael Cohen and Rudy Giuliani.

The SDNY has long been a thorn in the side of political figures, including Trump himself, who was investigated for his role in the 2016 hush-money payments, a case that led to his conviction in New York State court. During his campaign, Trump vowed to exact revenge against the officials who prosecuted him.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Secretary of Health and Human Services

Trump has picked Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a prominent anti-vaccine conspiracy theorist, to head the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The appointment comes less than three months after Kennedy dropped out of the 2024 presidential race and endorsed Trump.

Kennedy, 70, is known for his vocal opposition to vaccines, particularly his longstanding claims linking vaccinations to autism—a theory debunked by decades of scientific research. His views, which have earned him both fervent supporters and sharp critics, now position him at the helm of the very agency responsible for overseeing the nation’s health regulations.

Kennedy would need to be confirmed by the Senate. The nomination marks a dramatic departure from conventional selections for the position, and it is likely to test the Senate's willingness to confirm yet another controversial figure. In his new role, Kennedy is expected to have significant influence over key health agencies within HHS, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). His past rhetoric, which includes calls for removing fluoride from drinking water and restructuring the National Institutes of Health (NIH), suggests that his tenure could lead to sweeping changes in federal health policy, especially around vaccine safety and food regulation. Kennedy has tempered some of his more extreme positions in recent interviews, such as assuring the public that he would not “take vaccines away from anybody,” but his broader agenda remains focused on revisiting vaccine safety studies and challenging longstanding health guidelines, particularly those related to childhood immunizations.

Although Kennedy’s appointment has raised alarms among public health experts, Trump has expressed confidence in his new nominee’s ability to reshape the nation's health system. Trump said in a statement that Kennedy would “restore these agencies to the traditions of Gold Standard Scientific Research” and “end the Chronic Disease epidemic.”

Tulsi Gabbard, Director of National Intelligence

Tulsi Gabbard, a former Democratic member of Congress, was selected by Trump to serve as Director of National Intelligence. The position will require Senate confirmation. Gabbard served in the Army National Guard for more than two decades and was a member of the Armed Services, Homeland Security, and Foreign Affairs Committees. After running for President as a Democrat in 2019, she left the Democratic Party to become an independent. She joined the Republican Party in 2024 and endorsed Trump for President, co-chairing his transition team.

Read More: ‘We Are Reeling’: Trump’s Pick of Tulsi Gabbard Alarms Intelligence Community

Marco Rubio, Secretary of State

Florida Senator Marco Rubio has been named Secretary of State. Rubio currently serves as the vice-chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee and sits on the Foreign Relations Committee. He was a vocal critic of Trump in 2016 during his own presidential bid, but went on to endorse and campaign for him in 2024. Rubio has taken a hardline stance on China and Iran, and has called for an end of the war in Ukraine with a “negotiated settlement.” The role requires Senate confirmation.

Stephen Miller, deputy chief of staff

Longtime Trump advisor Stephen Miller was named deputy chief of staff for policy, which Trump’s Vice President-elect J.D. Vance had already confirmed in a post on X. The role does not require Senate confirmation.

Miller worked with Trump on his 2016 campaign and then joined him in the White House as a senior adviser. He orchestrated some of the first Trump Administration’s controversial immigration policies, including the “zero tolerance” family separation policy. Upon leaving the White House, he started America First Legal, a conservative legal nonprofit, which targeted many Biden Administration initiatives.

Dan Scavino, deputy chief of staff

Dan Scavino, a key figure in Trump’s political orbit for nearly a decade, has been appointed as deputy chief of staff and assistant to the President. Scavino first worked for Trump as a caddy at one of his golf courses, and has risen through the ranks to become one of Trump’s most trusted and longest-serving aides. He played a central role in shaping Trump’s media presence, first as social media director for the 2016 campaign and later as the White House’s director of social media during Trump’s first term. In his new role, Scavino will likely continue to wield significant influence over both the day-to-day operations of the White House and Trump’s public messaging strategy.

In 2022, he was held in contempt of Congress for refusing to comply with a subpoena issued by the House committee investigating the January 6th Capitol insurrection, though the Department of Justice declined to prosecute him.

James Blair, deputy chief of staff

James Blair has been appointed as deputy chief of staff for legislative, political, and public affairs, a role that will place him at the heart of Trump’s political strategy and legislative agenda. Blair previously served as political director for both Trump’s 2024 campaign and the Republican National Committee (RNC), and was also a top aide for Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis. He played a pivotal role in crafting Trump’s economic messaging during his campaign, including the "Trump can fix it" slogan. Blair will also serve as an assistant to the President.

Taylor Budowich, deputy chief of staff

Taylor Budowich has been appointed as deputy chief of staff for communications and personnel, placing him at the forefront of Trump’s public relations and staffing strategies. A veteran of Trump’s political operations, Budowich launched and directed Make America Great Again, Inc., the pro-Trump Super PAC that supported his 2024 bid. He also served as the spokesperson for Trump after his first term, working closely with the Save America PAC to shape the narrative surrounding Trump’s post-White House political activities.

Kristi Noem, Secretary of Homeland Security

The governor of South Dakota, Kristi Noem, will be the next Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security. The agency oversees everything from U.S. Customs and Border Protection to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the U.S. Secret Service.

“She will work closely with ‘Border Czar’ Tom Homan to secure the Border, and will guarantee that our American Homeland is secure from our adversaries,” Trump said in a statement sharing the pick.

A Trump loyalist, Noem was an outspoken opponent of COVID-19 safety measures and has historically taken a hardline stance on immigration. She was expected to be a front-runner for Trump’s Vice President pick in 2024, but faced controversy for admitting in her book, No Going Back, that she killed her 14-month-old dog after it ruined a hunt, killed another family’s chickens, and moved to bite her.

Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy, co-heads of “Department of Government Efficiency”

Trump announced that his prominent supporter, Tesla CEO Elon Musk and former GOP presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy will lead a new “Department of Government Efficiency” (DOGE, for short). In a statement, Trump shared that the two will work from outside the government but partner with the White House and Office of Management and Budget to “drive large scale structural reform and create an entrepreneurial approach to Government never seen before.” Trump said that the two will finish their work by July 4, 2026.

Ramaswamy, who ran in the Republican primary before dropping out and endorsing Trump, made reducing government spending a key part of his campaign. During his campaign, Trump also mentioned the possibility of giving Musk, who has said he could cut nearly a third of annual government spending, a role in the Administration.

Pete Hegseth, Secretary of Defense

As co-host of Fox News Channel’s Fox & Friends, Pete Hegseth is an untraditional choice for Secretary of Defense. “I am honored to announce that I have nominated Pete Hegseth to serve in my Cabinet as The Secretary of Defense,” Trump said in a post on Truth Social. “Pete has spent his entire life as a Warrior for the Troops, and for the Country. Pete is tough, smart and a true believer in America First.” If confirmed, Hegseth, an Army veteran who served in Afghanistan, Iraq, and at Guantanamo Bay, will take on the job amidst a number of global crises—including the Israel-Hamas war and the Ukraine-Russia conflict.

John Ratcliffe, CIA director

Trump said he will name John Ratcliffe to be director of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), pending confirmation by the Senate. Ratcliffe served as a Texas congressman from 2015 to 2020, before joining the first Trump Administration as Director of National Intelligence. While in Congress, he served as a member of the House Intelligence and Judiciary Committees and as Cybersecurity Chairman on the Homeland Security Committee. Ratcliffe, who received a National Security Medal from Trump in 2020, testified in front of a grand jury as part of a criminal probe into the aftermath of the 2020 election, and warned White House staffers against following through with efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election, according to a former White House staffer.

William Joseph McGinley, White House counsel

William Joseph McGinley, who served as White House Cabinet secretary in the first Trump Administration, will serve as Trump’s White House counsel. McGinley most recently worked as an outside counsel for the Republican National Committee’s election integrity team during the 2024 election.

“Bill is a smart and tenacious lawyer who will help me advance our America First agenda while fighting for election integrity and against the weaponization of law enforcement,” Trump said in a statement announcing the decision.

Steve Witkoff, special envoy to the Middle East

Trump has appointed real estate executive and philanthropist Steven Witkoff as his special envoy to the Middle East, tapping a close personal ally and major campaign fundraiser for a role that could shape U.S. foreign policy in the region. Witkoff, the chairman and CEO of Witkoff Group, played a key role in rallying financial backing for Trump from Jewish donors, particularly during tensions with the Biden Administration over military support for Israel.

Trump praised Witkoff’s business acumen and philanthropic efforts, calling him an “unrelenting Voice for PEACE,” while noting his ability to make “every project and community he has been involved with stronger and more prosperous.” Witkoff was golfing with Trump at Trump’s club in West Palm Beach, Florida in September when the former President was the target of a second assassination attempt.

The special envoy role remains somewhat undefined compared to traditional diplomatic positions. Witkoff has no prior experience in foreign diplomacy. He has been an outspoken advocate for Trump’s Middle East policies, praising the former President for his efforts to strengthen Israel's position and curb Iran’s influence.

Witkoff is also set to co-chair Trump’s inaugural committee.

Mike Huckabee, ambassador to Israel

Trump has selected former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee to be the U.S. ambassador to Israel, tapping a loyal ally for the high-profile diplomatic position with the region in crisis. If confirmed by the Senate, Huckabee will step into the role as Israel wages a multifront war against Iran’s proxies and a humanitarian catastrophe unfolds in Gaza.

A staunch defender of Israel and a vocal supporter of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Huckabee has long been a proponent of U.S. policies that align with Israeli interests, including the recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital and moving the U.S. Embassy to the city. His appointment signals a continuation of Trump’s support for Israel, particularly in its conflict with Hamas and its broader territorial claims.

“Mike has been a great public servant, Governor, and Leader in Faith for many years,” Trump said in a statement. “He loves Israel, and the people of Israel, and likewise, the people of Israel love him. Mike will work tirelessly to bring about Peace in the Middle East!”

An evangelical Christian, Huckabee would be the first non-Jewish person to hold the role since 2011. Huckabee has consistently dismissed the notion of Palestinian statehood within Israeli borders, suggesting in the past that any Palestinian state should be established in neighboring countries such as Egypt or Jordan. During his 2008 presidential campaign, he said, “There’s really no such thing as a Palestinian.” He has also signaled that he opposes negotiating a ceasefire deal with Hamas, calling on the Islamist militant group to surrender.

Huckabee’s daughter, Sarah Huckabee Sanders, is the current Governor of Arkansas and served as White House press secretary during Trump’s first term.

Mike Waltz, national security adviser

Mike Waltz, a Republican congressman from Florida, was tapped to serve as Trump’s national security advisor. Waltz, a Green Beret veteran who served in Afghanistan, the Middle East and Africa, has been a member of Congress since 2019. He is a member of the House’s China Task Force, along with the Armed Services, Foreign Affairs and Intelligence committees. Waltz, widely known for his aggressive stance on China and Iran, will step into the role amid ongoing wars in Ukraine and Gaza. Last year, he wrote an op-ed for Fox News in which he argued that “the era of Ukraine’s blank check from Congress is over.” He, like Trump, has also called for European countries to contribute more to NATO. The role does not require Senate confirmation.

“Mike has been a strong champion of my America First Foreign Policy agenda, and will be a tremendous champion of our pursuit of Peace through Strength,” Trump said in a statement.

Elise Stefanik, U.N. ambassador

Trump nominated New York Rep. Elise Stefanik to be U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations. Stefanik has been a critic of the U.N., in particular over the organization’s stance on Israel, saying last month that the Biden Administration should consider a “complete reassessment” of U.S. funding of the U.N. given the Palestinian Authority’s efforts to expel Israel from the General Assembly. Stefanik has been a vocal supporter of Trump, during both of his impeachment trials and as he contested the results of the 2020 election. She has ascended the party’s ranks, serving as chair of the House Republican Conference, the fourth highest position in House GOP leadership. Stefanik’s appointment will need to be confirmed by the Senate.

Lee Zeldin, EPA administrator

Trump has picked Lee Zeldin, a former New York representative, to serve as the administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The position is subject to Senate confirmation. Zeldin said he would “restore U.S. energy dominance, revitalize our auto industry to bring back American jobs, and make the US the global leader of AI,” while committing to clean air and water, in a statement posted on X.

Zeldin represented a district spanning from Long Island to the Hamptons while in Congress from 2015-2023 and previously served as a major in the Army Reserve. Zeldin was a staunch defender of Trump during his first term and sided with him during both impeachments. Zeldin most recently ran against New York Gov. Kathy Hochul in the state’s 2022 gubernatorial race.

Tom Homan, ‘border czar’

Tom Homan, the former acting director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), was appointed as “border czar,” a role that will likely be involved in Trump’s plan for mass deportations of millions of undocumented migrants. Homan, a former police officer, will be in charge of the southern and northern U.S. borders, as well as “all Maritime and Aviation Security,” according to Trump’s post on Truth Social. Homan also served in Trump’s first term—acting as ICE director from January 2017 to June 2018—and played a role in Trump’s crackdown on immigration, as one of the architects of the administration’s controversial child separation policy. The role will not require Senate confirmation.

Susie Wiles, chief of staff

Susie Wiles, Trump’s 2024 campaign manager, was named White House chief of staff soon after Election Day, in the first major staffing decision. A longtime Republican strategist and campaign staffer, Wiles worked on Ronald Reagan’s 1980 campaign and managed Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis’ winning gubernatorial campaign in 2018. Wiles, who Trump referred to as the “ice maiden” in his election night victory speech, will be the first woman to serve as chief of staff.

— With reporting by Simmone Shah, Nik Popli, Chad de Guzman, Solcyré Burga, and Rebecca Schneid.