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Jimmy Williams
President-elect Donald Trump has announced key picks for his incoming Cabinet and White House staff, tapping loyal supporters and influential allies who backed him during his 2024 campaign. These selections prioritize figures with close ties to Trump and significant conservative credentials, including officials from his first administration and prominent Republican allies.
Among the early appointments, Susie Wiles, who managed Trump’s 2024 campaign, will serve as White House Chief of Staff. Known for her close working relationship with Trump, Wiles managed his campaign strategy, securing his trust and keeping his focus on message, according to sources familiar with her role. A seasoned GOP operative in Florida, Wiles has managed previous campaigns for prominent Republicans, including Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis’ 2018 gubernatorial campaign before she joined Trump’s team.
For national security adviser, Trump selected Rep. Mike Waltz, a three-term congressman from Florida and a retired Army officer. Known for his strong stance on defense, particularly regarding China and U.S. military policy, Waltz is expected to take the lead on foreign policy concerns like the war in Ukraine and regional conflicts in the Middle East. Waltz’s experience includes Pentagon advisory roles and multiple combat tours in Afghanistan.
Tom Homan, who led U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) under Trump, will serve as “border czar” in the new administration. Homan’s priority will be carrying out Trump’s ambitious mass deportation plans, an effort Homan describes as both challenging and necessary. Homan was a central figure in Trump’s immigration enforcement strategy during his first term, drawing both support and criticism for his endorsement of “zero tolerance” policies that led to family separations at the U.S.-Mexico border.
In a significant foreign policy appointment, Trump named Rep. Elise Stefanik of New York as U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations. Stefanik, one of Trump’s staunchest defenders, gained national attention for her assertive questioning of university leaders on antisemitism and for her support of Israel. She will represent the U.S. at the U.N. as Trump navigates international challenges, including the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza.
Stephen Miller, a senior adviser from Trump’s first term known for his hardline immigration views, will serve as deputy chief of staff for policy. A prominent advocate of strict immigration reform, Miller has voiced support for Trump’s calls for mass deportations, contending that they would alleviate both economic and social pressures.
In a move emphasizing deregulatory goals, Trump selected former Rep. Lee Zeldin to lead the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Zeldin, who does not have a background in environmental issues, has pledged to promote American energy independence and reduce regulatory burdens on businesses. Trump’s choice of Zeldin signals a shift toward prioritizing economic growth and energy production, potentially rolling back climate-focused policies implemented under the Biden administration.
Trump’s initial picks suggest a Cabinet focused on loyalists and advocates of his America First agenda, laying the groundwork for an administration expected to pursue bold, conservative policies across immigration, national security, and economic regulation. Further Cabinet appointments are anticipated as the president-elect prepares for his January inauguration.
