Who Could Be Included in Trump’s New Cabinet?

 

Who Could Be Included in Trump’s New Cabinet?

After winning the U.S. presidential election, Republican candidate Donald Trump will begin selecting members for his cabinet and top administrative officials in the coming weeks. Reuters has provided an idea of potential candidates who could fill key roles in defense, intelligence, foreign affairs, commerce, economy, and immigration. Here's a look at the possible individuals:

Scott Bessen

Bessen, a key economic advisor to Trump, is a potential candidate for Secretary of the Treasury. A long-time hedge fund investor, Bessen has taught at Yale University and maintains a close relationship with Trump. He is a strong advocate of laissez-faire economics, a policy once popular in the pre-Trump Republican Party. Bessen has also supported Trump's trade policies, including the use of tariffs as a negotiating tool.

John Paulson

John Paulson, a billionaire hedge fund manager and one of Trump’s key donors, could be considered for Secretary of the Treasury. Paulson has expressed interest in the role, according to sources close to him.

Larry Kudlow

Larry Kudlow, former director of the National Economic Council during Trump’s first term, could also be considered for Secretary of the Treasury. Kudlow, who currently hosts a program on Fox Business, may be appointed to another key economic position if he expresses interest.

Robert Lighthizer

Lighthizer, a loyal ally of Trump and former U.S. Trade Representative, is another strong candidate for Treasury Secretary. Even if he does not take on this role, Lighthizer may be offered another important position or continue in his former role.

Howard Lutnick

Lutnick, CEO of Cantor Fitzgerald and co-chair of Trump’s inauguration committee, is also being considered for Treasury Secretary. He is a strong advocate of Trump’s economic policies, particularly regarding tariffs, and has occasionally offered unsolicited opinions on Trump’s second-term policy direction.

Richard Grenell

Grenell, who served as the acting Director of National Intelligence and U.S. Ambassador to Germany during Trump’s first term, could be appointed as National Security Advisor. He is considered one of Trump’s close allies and has maintained strong relationships with foreign leaders, including Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Robert O’Brien

O’Brien, who served as National Security Advisor during Trump’s first term, is a potential candidate for Secretary of State or another key foreign policy or national security position. He has maintained a close relationship with Trump and continues to engage with foreign leaders.

Bill Hagerty

Bill Hagerty, a Tennessee senator and former U.S. Ambassador to Japan, is a leading contender for Secretary of State. He has maintained strong relationships within all factions of the Republican Party and would likely receive swift Senate approval if nominated.

Marco Rubio

Marco Rubio, a Florida senator and former presidential candidate, is another potential candidate for Secretary of State. Rubio has aligned closely with Trump’s policies and has long been involved in the Senate’s foreign affairs committee.

Mike Waltz

Mike Waltz, a congressman from Florida, is a potential candidate for Secretary of Defense. Waltz has established himself as a vocal critic of China and has worked on various China-related bills in the House. His military experience makes him a strong contender for this position.

Mike Pompeo

Mike Pompeo, former CIA Director and Secretary of State under Trump, is another possibility for Secretary of Defense. Pompeo could also be appointed to a national security, intelligence, or diplomatic role.

Tom Cotton

Tom Cotton, an Arkansas senator and former military officer, is another possible choice for Secretary of Defense. He is favored by Trump donors and could be appointed to the role due to his strong defense and foreign policy stances.

Keith Kellogg

Keith Kellogg, a retired Lieutenant General who served as Chief of Staff for the National Security Council during Trump’s first term, could be appointed to a national security-related position.

Other Possible Candidates

For Secretary of Homeland Security, Trump may consider Tom Homan, who served in his first term, or Chad Wolf, who was Acting Secretary of Homeland Security during Trump’s presidency. Rep. Mark Green, who currently chairs the House Homeland Security Committee, is also a candidate for this position.

For Attorney General, Trump may choose John Ratcliffe, a former congressman and National Intelligence Director during Trump’s first term, or former prosecutor Mike Lee, a current senator from Utah.

Trump’s Chief of Staff could potentially be Susie Wiles, who served as a co-manager for his re-election campaign.

This list includes many individuals with close ties to Trump, and it remains to be seen who will ultimately be selected for these key positions.