Trump cabinet unveiled, includes loyalists in key roles

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
13 Nov 2024 17:57

Trump has created a new Department of Government Efficiency, appointing business figures Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy to lead it.

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Republican presidential nominee former President Donald Trump and South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem dance to the song "YMCA" at a campaign town hall at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center & Fairgrounds, Oct. 14, 2024, in Oaks, Pa. (AP)

US news sources on Wednesday reported that US President-elect Donald Trump has begun selecting his cabinet, naming key figures known for their loyalty and alignment with his policy agenda for critical roles.

This wave of appointments includes seasoned political allies and high-profile figures from both the private sector and conservative circles, set to oversee defense, intelligence, trade, and immigration in the upcoming administration.

Among Trump's first choices is Susie Wiles as White House Chief of Staff. Wiles, one of Trump's campaign managers, is expected to bring a measured approach to the West Wing, a quality supporters say was lacking during Trump's previous term, where he had multiple chiefs of staff.

Trump also tapped Tom Homan, former acting director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, as his "border czar." Known for his tough stance on immigration, Homan is expected to lead Trump's efforts to intensify deportations, prioritizing individuals deemed security threats.

Elise Stefanik, a staunch Trump ally and Republican congresswoman from New York, has been named US Ambassador to the United Nations. Stefanik's appointment comes as Trump vows to pursue ambitious foreign policy goals, including ending conflicts such as the Russia-Ukraine war and "Israel's" war on Gaza.

In a related move, Senator Marco Rubio is reportedly a top contender for Secretary of State. Rubio, known for his strong stance on national security, would likely continue Trump's America First agenda by taking a hardline approach toward US adversaries like China and Iran.

In the realm of defense, Trump has named Pete Hegseth as Defense Secretary. A Fox News commentator and veteran, Hegseth has criticized Pentagon policies on diversity and inclusivity, a stance that aligns with Trump's goal of shifting the military's focus away from social issues.

Trump also created a new Department of Government Efficiency, appointing business figures Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy to lead it. The department's mandate includes reducing federal bureaucracy, cutting regulatory red tape, and encouraging a more business-driven approach to government operations.

For the Department of Homeland Security, Trump selected Governor Kristi Noem of South Dakota, who gained national attention for her opposition to COVID-19 mandates. Noem is expected to work closely with Homan on border security, an area where Trump has vowed sweeping reforms.

John Ratcliffe, former Director of National Intelligence under Trump, is set to return as CIA Director, while Mike Waltz, a US representative and retired Army Green Beret, will serve as National Security Adviser. Waltz has been an outspoken critic of China's influence in the Asia-Pacific region, aligning with Trump's stance on preparing for potential regional conflicts.

In the economic sphere, Robert Lighthizer, Scott Bessent, and Howard Lutnick are potential candidates for Treasury Secretary. Lighthizer, a former trade representative, was instrumental in Trump's trade policies during his first term, notably in renegotiating the NAFTA agreement.