THE EXPLANATOR
As Trump’s second administration begins, the scramble for key positions in his incoming cabinet has begun.
Who is inside? And who is out?
Donald Trump is carefully considering his cabinet picks following his victory over Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris on Tuesday.
Trump reportedly avoided detailed cabinet discussions until the election results were clear.
Now, as the names emerge, here’s a closer look at who might be part of the next administration, from veteran Republican figures to unexpected newcomers.
JD Vance – Senator, Ohio, and vice president elect
Ohio Senator JD Vance has risen quickly as a prominent voice of the GOP, going from never-Trumper to staunch running mate. Without comparing Trump to Hitler, Vance is ideologically aligned with the background of the 47th MAGA president, particularly on issues such as national security and US-China relations. A former venture capitalist and author, Vance is a staunch advocate of Trump’s America First agenda. He is a sharp critic of Joe Biden’s foreign policy and will bring a populist attitude to the Oval Office.
Robert F Kennedy Jr – Presidential candidate, environmentalist
Former Democrat Robert F Kennedy Jr ran for president on an unsuccessful independent ticket this election cycle, before ending his campaign to replace Trump. He faced a number of issues that arose during his campaign, including admitting to short-term memory loss due to “brain worms”, dumping a dead bear in a park, and allegations that he sexually assaulted his family’s live-in nanny. 1998.
The watchdog of the vaccine conspiracy, Trump predicted that he would contact Kennedy to “behave badly about health,” said the New York Times. His first act of business if elected? Kennedy said he would push to “advise all US water systems to remove fluoride from public water”.
Vivek Ramaswamy – Biotechnology entrepreneur
Vivek Ramaswamy, a businessman-turned-politician, made a name for himself in the 2024 Republican primary with his anti-“resurgence” and government reform agenda. Ramaswamy, a staunch critic of Big Tech censorship and bureaucratic overreach, could have a role in the Commerce Department or a tech-focused position, driving policies that challenge Silicon Valley and strengthen free speech. Although a longtime friend of JD Vance, he has distinguished himself from the next vice president ideologically, throwing himself into the liberal mold, in contrast to Vance’s support for economic elements.
Marco Rubio – Senator, Florida
Senator Marco Rubio, who was repeatedly attacked by Trump in the 2016 Republican primaries, has been highly critical of Biden’s stance on national security and foreign policy; he is strongly opposed to Russia and China. Rubio, who was nominated as a potential vice presidential candidate, has experience in foreign affairs positions, making him a strong candidate for secretary of state or another foreign policy role. He is very much in line with Trump’s insistence on putting America’s interests first.
Elon Musk – CEO, Tesla, SpaceX
Another billionaire eyeing a top spot in Trump’s world, Elon Musk was central to Trump’s crucial election victory. Musk endorsed Trump shortly after the assassination attempt on the president-elect at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. The tech giant was part of the incoming president’s campaign, mobilizing the MAGA vote at rallies and online through a super PAC he founded.
Days before Trump was returned to the White House, the X owner promised to overhaul the federal government as “secretary of spending cuts” if given a cabinet post. However, Musk may decide he is better suited for an oversight role, rather than a position like energy secretary, which would involve congressional approval hearings.
Doug Burgum – Governor, North Dakota
Doug Burgum ran a long campaign against Trump, in which the incoming president blasted the governor of North Dakota. But would the gambit pay off in the long run? Burgum’s first unsuccessful attempt greatly increased his profile on the national stage. His experience managing North Dakota’s natural resources makes him an ideal candidate for interior secretary. You will likely focus on balancing energy development and conservation efforts, overseeing public spaces, and implementing policies that support both economic growth and environmental stewardship.
John Ratcliffe – Former director of national intelligence
John Ratcliffe, who served as director of national intelligence under Trump, is a trusted ally with extensive experience in intelligence and cybersecurity. Known for his loyalty to Trump and his ability to “fight terrorism”, Ratcliffe may resume the same role, focusing on cybersecurity threats and intelligence reforms. His re-election will signal the continuation of Trump’s approach to national security and information integrity.
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