Former defense official says a second Trump term promises a ‘realistic,’ ‘better’ outcome in the Middle East.
Former Deputy Assistant Defense Secretary Elbridge Colby discusses what to expect in the Middle East under President-elect Trump on ‘The Story.’
Since winning the election last week, President-elect Donald Trump has begun evaluating and rolling out his picks for his Cabinet and other top roles.
Here’s a roundup of whom Trump has picked to fill top jobs in his administration:
Publicly announced
White House Chief of Staff – Susie Wiles
U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations – Elise Stefanik
National Security Adviser – Michael Waltz
"Border Czar" – Tom Homan
Ambassador to Israel – Mike Huckabee
Environmental Protection Agency Administrator – Lee Zeldin
Middle East Envoy – Steven Witkoff
White House Counsel – William McGinley
CIA Director – John Ratcliffe
Department of Government Efficiency – Elon Musk, Vivek Ramaswamy
Secretary of Defense – Pete Hegseth
Homeland Security Secretary – Kristi Noem
Deputy Chief of Staff – Dan Scavino
Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy and Homeland Security Advisor – Stephen Miller
Deputy Chief of Staff for Legislative, Political and Public Affairs – James Blair
Deputy Chief of Staff for Communications and Personnel – Taylor Budowich
Director of National Intelligence – Tulsi Gabbard
Secretary of State – Marco Rubio
U.S. Attorney General – Pam Bondi
Secretary of Health and Human Services – Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
U.S. Attorney for Southern District of New York – Jay Clayton
Secretary of Veterans Affairs – Doug Collins
U.S Solicitor General – Dean John Sauer
Deputy Attorney General – Todd Blanche
Secretary of the Interior – Doug Burgum
Communications Director – Steven Cheung
Director of Presidential Personnel – Sergio Gor
Press Secretary – Karoline Leavitt
Assistant to the President and Staff Secretary – William Owen Scharf
Secretary of Energy – Chris Wright
Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission – Brendan Carr
Secretary of Transportation – Sean Duffy
Secretary of Commerce – Howard Lutnick
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Administrator – Dr. Mehmet Oz
Secretary of Education – Linda McMahon
Ambassador to NATO – Matthew Whitaker
Scott Bessent – Treasury Secretary
Russ Vought – Office of Management and Budget
Scott Turner – Secretary of the Department of Housing and Urban Development
Lori Chavez-DeRemer – Labor Secretary
Dave Weldon – Director of CDC
Marty Makary – FDA commissioner
Janette Nesheiwat – Surgeon General
Sebastian Gorka – Deputy Assistant to the President and Senior Director for Counterterrorism
Alex Wong – Assistant to the President and Principal Deputy National Security Advisor
White House Chief of Staff – Susie Wiles
Wiles has been widely lauded for heading Trump’s successful campaign this year, having run Trump’s campaign operations in Florida in 2016 and 2020. She maintained close ties with the president-elect throughout the Biden administration and signed on as CEO of Trump’s Save America PAC in 2021.
"Susie is tough, smart, innovative and is universally admired and respected. Susie will continue to work tirelessly to Make America Great Again. It is a well deserved honor to have Susie as the first-ever female Chief of Staff in United States history. I have no doubt that she will make our country proud," Trump said in a statement.
Trump picked campaign manager Susie Wiles for his chief of staff. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
THESE ARE THE TOP NAMES IN CONTENTION FOR DEFENSE SECRETARY UNDER TRUMP
US Ambassador to the United Nations – Elise Stefanik
Elise Stefanik, the New York Republican representative and current House GOP Conference Chair has been an attack dog for Trump in Congress.
She is a staunch supporter of Israel, having made headlines for her combative lines of questioning of Ivy League university presidents over their handling of anti-Israel protests, some of which prompted the presidents to resign.
President-elect Trump picked Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-N.Y., to be the next ambassador to the United Nations. (Angela Weiss/AFP via Getty Images)
National Security Adviser – Michael Waltz
On Tuesday, Trump announced the Florida Republican representative and former Army Green Beret would be his national security adviser. He’s decidedly a hawk on China and Iran.
"Mike retired as a Colonel, and is a nationally recognized leader in National Security, a bestselling author, and an expert on the threats posed by China, Russia, Iran, and global terrorism," Trump said in a statement.
"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!"
On Tuesday, Trump announced Rep. Michael Waltz, a Florida Republican and former Army Green Beret, would be his national security adviser. (John Nacion/Getty Images)
"Border Czar" – Tom Homan
Homan, the former acting director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, was an architect of Trump's zero-tolerance policy during his first administration, one that led to backlash from family separations at the border.
Homan has served under six administrations and presidents in both parties, dating back to the Reagan era, as a rank-and-file Border Patrol agent. He was appointed to the position of executive associate director of enforcement and removal operations for ICE under President Obama.
While serving at a "czar" level rather than in an official Cabinet position, Homan will be in charge of "the Southern Border, the Northern Border, all Maritime, and Aviation Security," Trump announced on Truth Social.
"I’ve known Tom for a long time, and there is nobody better at policing and controlling our Borders," Trump wrote. "Likewise, Tom Homan will be in charge of all Deportation of Illegal Aliens back to their Country of Origin. Congratulations to Tom. I have no doubt he will do a fantastic, and long awaited for, job."
Tom Homan has been tapped by President-elect Trump to be his "border czar." (Bill Clark/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images)
Ambassador to Israel – Mike Huckabee
Huckabee, the former governor of Arkansas, is a staunch supporter of Israel, prompted by his evangelical faith.
"Mike has been a great public servant, Governor, and Leader in Faith for many years. He loves Israel, and the people of Israel, and likewise, the people of Israel love him", a statement attached to Trump’s Truth Social post said. "Mike will work tirelessly to bring about Peace in the Middle East!"
Former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee will be Trump's ambassador to Israel. (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)
Environmental Protection Agency Administrator – Lee Zeldin
Zeldin, a former House Republican from New York, had a notably strong, but unsuccessful, showing in the race for governor against Kathy Hochul in 2022.
During that race, he called for New York to lift its ban on fracking.
Prior to running for governor, Zeldin served as a U.S. Congressman for eight years. During that time, Zeldin served on the House Foreign Affairs and House Financial Services committees. He also championed infrastructure and research projects like the preservation of Plum Island and Army Corps of Engineers initiatives.
Lee Zeldin will lead the EPA. (Lev Radin/Pacific Press/LightRocket via Getty Images)
Middle East Envoy – Steven Witkoff
Witkoff, a real estate investor, landlord, and the founder of the Witkoff Group, was tapped as Trump's Middle East enjoy. He campaign with Trump during the campaign.
In his announcement, Trump said that Witkoff would be an "unrelenting Voice for PEACE" in the highly-contentious region.
Steve Witkoff, founder and chief executive officer of Witkoff Group LLC, speaks during a campaign event for Republican presidential nominee former President Trump at Madison Square Garden in New York City, Oct. 27. (Adam Gray/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
White House Counsel – William McGinley
McGinley, who served in Trump's first presidential term as White House cabinet secretary, returns to the White House for Trump's second term. The White House Counsel conducts key behind-the-scene research into potential Supreme Court nominees.
William J. McGinley speaks at an event in Washington, D.C. (Tom Williams/Roll Call/Getty Images)
CIA Director – John Ratcliffe
Ratcliffe previously served under Trump during his first term as Director of National Intelligence (DNI). He will head the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA).
In 2020, he was awarded the National Security Medal, the nation’s highest honor for distinguished achievement in the field of intelligence and national security.
John Ratcliffe is President-elect Trump's pick to lead the CIA. (Getty Images)
Department of Government Efficiency – Elon Musk, Vivek Ramaswamy
Billionaire Elon Musk and former GOP presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy were tapped to lead the Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE.
Trump said that the pair will work together to "dismantle Government Bureaucracy, slash excess regulations, cut wasteful expenditures, and restructure Federal Agencies."
"It will become, potentially, ‘The Manhattan Project’ of our time," the announcement on Tuesday evening said. "Republican politicians have dreamed about the objectives of ‘DOGE’ for a very long time."
Vivek Ramaswamy and Elon Musk have been tapped by President-elect Donald Trump to lead the Department of Government Efficiency. (Getty Images/AP Images)
Secretary of Defense – Pete Hegseth
Trump nominated Hegseth to lead the Department of Defense. He would need to be confirmed by the Senate to assume the position. Hegseth has long championed a strong military and veterans causes.
He served in Iraq and Afghanistan as an Army infantry officer, being awarded two Bronze Stars and the Combat Infantryman's Badge. Hegseth was a host on "FOX & Friends Weekend" and FOX Nation until his last day on Tuesday.
"Nobody fights harder for the Troops, and Pete will be a courageous and patriotic champion of our ‘Peace through Strength’ policy," Trump said.
Pete Hegseth has been tapped by Trump to be his secretary of defense. (Roy Rochlin/Getty Images)
Homeland Security Secretary – Kristi Noem
Trump announced on Tuesday that South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem is his pick for secretary of the Department of Homeland Security. Noem would need to be approved by the Senate to assume the position.
DHS oversees U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the U.S. Secret Service and the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
"She was the first Governor to send National Guard Soldiers to help Texas fight the Biden Border Crisis, and they were sent a total of eight times," the Trump transition team said in a statement on Tuesday. "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."
Gov. Kristi Noem, R-N.D., speaking during the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, July 15. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)
GOP REP. MIKE WALTZ TAPPED TO BE TRUMP'S NATIONAL SECURITY ADVISER
Deputy Chief of Staff – Dan Scavino
Trump announced that his longtime aide Dan Scavino Jr. will return to the White House as an assistant to the president and deputy chief of staff.
"Scavino was a Trump Campaign Senior Advisor and remains one of President Trump's longest serving and most trusted aides," the Trump transition team said.
Former White House deputy chief of staff Dan Scavino arrives at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, July 15. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy and Homeland Security Advisor – Stephen Miller
Trump announced Stephen Miller would serve as deputy chief of staff for policy in his administration. Miller was a senior adviser in Trump’s first term. He helped craft many of Trump’s hard-line speeches and plans on immigration.
Since Trump left office, Miller has served as the president of America First Legal, an organization of former Trump advisers fashioned as a conservative version of the American Civil Liberties Union, challenging the Biden administration, media companies, universities and others over issues such as freedom of speech and religion and national security.
Miller has advocated for mass deportations during the second Trump term.
Stephen Miller, former Senior Advisor to President Trump, speaks at a campaign rally for Trump in Detroit, Oct. 18. (Win McNamee/Getty Images)
Deputy Chief of Staff for Legislative, Political and Public Affairs – James Blair
Trump announced James Blair would serve in the White House as an assistant to the president and deputy chief of staff for legislative, political and public affairs.
"Blair was the Trump Campaign and Republican National Committee Political Director, managing hundreds of staff and overseeing a wide portfolio of political operations and programs," the Trump transition team said.
Blair was in charge of the Trump campaign's get-out-the-vote operations in key battleground states, which Trump swept on Election Day.
Deputy Chief of Staff for Communications and Personnel – Taylor Budowich
Trump announced that Taylor Budowich will join him in the White House as an assistant to the president and deputy chief of staff for communications and personnel.
"Prior to joining the Trump Campaign, Budowich served in a senior role in President Trump’s Leadership PAC, Save America, and as CEO of the pro-Trump Super PAC, MAGA Inc.," the Trump transition team said.
"Dan, Stephen, James, and Taylor were 'best in class' advisors on my winning campaign, and I know they will honorably serve the American people in the White House," Trump said in a statement announcing his senior campaign aides would be promoted to the White House. "They will continue to work hard to Make America Great Again in their respective new roles."
Taylor Budowich, a former spokesman for President-elect Trump and founder of MxM News app. (X)
Director of National Intelligence – Tulsi Gabbard
Tulsi Gabbard, a former Democratic congresswoman from Hawaii, is Trump's pick for the position of director of national intelligence. The announcement was made on Wednesday.
The cabinet-level position involves overseeing the intelligence community and advising Trump and the National Security Council on intelligence matters. Gabbard is an Iraq War veteran and a U.S. Army reservist.
"As a former Candidate for the Democrat Presidential Nomination, she has broad support in both Parties - She is now a proud Republican!" Trump said in a statement. "I know Tulsi will bring the fearless spirit that has defined her illustrious career to our Intelligence Community, championing our Constitutional Rights, and securing Peace through Strength. Tulsi will make us all proud!"
Tulsi Gabbard, former U.S. Representative from Hawaii, speaks during the Palmetto Family Council's Vision 24 national conservative policy forum in North Charleston, S.C., March 18, 2023. (Sam Wolfe/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
Secretary of State – Marco Rubio
President-elect Donald Trump nominated Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., to serve as his Secretary of State.
"It is my Great Honor to announce that Senator Marco Rubio, of Florida, is hereby nominated to be The United States Secretary of State. Marco is a Highly Respected Leader, and a very powerful Voice for Freedom," Trump said in a statement. "He will be a strong Advocate for our Nation, a true friend to our Allies, and a fearless Warrior who will never back down to our adversaries."
Rubio is known as an Iran and China hawk. He is a top GOP member of the Senate Intelligence Committee and ran for president in 2016.
Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., attends a campaign rally for former President Donald Trump at the Trump National Doral Golf Club in Doral, Fla., July 9. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
U.S. Attorney General – Pam Bondi
Trump announced Thursday evening that he's nominating former attorney general of Florida Pam Bondi as the next attorney general of the United States.
Trump's latest Cabinet pick replaces Matt Gaetz, the former Florida representative and nominee for attorney general, who on Thursday withdrew as Trump's pick for the top prosecutor after the "distraction" his nomination had caused due to a swirl of allegations about paying underage women for sex.
"For too long, the partisan Department of Justice has been weaponized against me and other Republicans - Not anymore. Pam will refocus the DOJ to its intended purpose of fighting Crime, and Making America Safe Again," Trump said. "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!"
Shortly after the announcement, Gaetz said on X that Bondi is "a stellar selection" by Trump for attorney general.
"Pam and I worked closely together when she was Florida’s Attorney General and I chaired Criminal Justice in the state house," Gaetz wrote. "She’s a proven litigator, an inspiring leader and a champion for all Americans. She will bring the needed reforms to DOJ."
Former Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi stands on stage in an empty Mellon Auditorium while addressing the Republican National Convention on August 25, 2020 in Washington, DC. The novel coronavirus pandemic has forced the Republican Party to move away from an in-person convention to a televised format, similar to the Democratic Party's convention a week earlier. (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)
Deputy Attorney General – Todd Blanche
Trump named his personal criminal defense attorney Todd Blanche as deputy attorney general. The president-elect said that the 50-year-old lawyer has experience prosecuting gangs – as well as representing Trump in his 2024 criminal trial in New York.
"I am pleased to announce that Todd Blanche will serve as Deputy Attorney General in my Administration. Todd is an excellent attorney who will be a crucial leader in the Justice Department, fixing what has been a broken System of Justice for far too long," Trump announced in a news release.
Attorney Todd Blanche listens as his client former U.S. President Donald Trump speaks as he arrives for his hush money trial at Manhattan Criminal Court on May 30, 2024 in New York City. (Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images)
Secretary of Health and Human Services – Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
Trump announced he will tap former 2024 Democratic presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to lead the Department of Health and Human Services.
"I am thrilled to announce Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as The United States Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS). For too long, Americans have been crushed by the industrial food complex and drug companies who have engaged in deception, misinformation, and disinformation when it comes to Public Health," Trump said in his announcement Thursday.
"The Safety and Health of all Americans is the most important role of any Administration, and HHS will play a big role in helping ensure that everybody will be protected from harmful chemicals, pollutants, pesticides, pharmaceutical products, and food additives that have contributed to the overwhelming Health Crisis in this Country. Mr. Kennedy will restore these Agencies to the traditions of Gold Standard Scientific Research, and beacons of Transparency, to end the Chronic Disease epidemic, and to Make America Great and Healthy Again!" Trump added.
Kennedy dropped out of the presidential race in August and quickly endorsed the Trump-Vance ticket, and has since repeatedly vowed to "Make America Healthy Again."
Republican presidential nominee former President Trump shakes hands with Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. at a campaign rally in Glendale, Ariz., Aug. 23. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)
U.S. Attorney for Southern District of New York – Jay Clayton
President-elect Trump announced Thursday that he is nominating Jay Clayton to serve as U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York.
"I am pleased to announce that Jay Clayton, of New York, the Chairman of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission during my first term, where he did an incredible job, is hereby nominated to be the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York," Trump wrote in a post on Truth Social. "Jay is a highly respected business leader, counsel, and public servant.
"Jay is going to be a strong Fighter for the Truth as we, Make America Great Again," the president-elect added.
Anchor Maria Bartiromo interviews chairman of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission Jay Clayton during "Mornings With Maria" at Fox Business Network Studios on February 24, 2020 in New York City.
Secretary of Veterans Affairs – Doug Collins
President-elect Trump announced on Thursday his intent to nominate former Rep. Doug Collins, R-Ga., to serve as secretary of veterans affairs.
"Doug is a Veteran himself, who currently serves our Nation as a Chaplain in the United States Air Force Reserve Command, and fought for our Country in the Iraq War," Trump wrote on Truth Social. "We must take care of our brave men and women in uniform, and Doug will be a great advocate for our Active Duty Servicemembers, Veterans, and Military Families to ensure they have the support they need.
"Thank you, Doug, for your willingness to serve our country in this very important role," the president-elect added.
Dean John Sauer, special assistant to the Louisiana attorney general, listens during a hearing with the House Judiciary Subcommittee in Washington, D.C., in 2023. (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)
U.S. Solicitor General – Dean John Sauer
Trump announced Dean John Sauer as his pick for U.S. solicitor general.
"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 the announcement.
Sauer served as solicitor general of Missouri from 2017 to 2023, and represented Trump in his successful appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court in Trump v. United States.
Secretary of the Interior – Doug Burgum
North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum encourages voters to support Republican presidential candidate former President Trump during a campaign rally in Laconia, N.H. (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)
President-elect Trump announced that North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum will lead the Department of the Interior during a speech at the Americans for Prosperity Gala at Mar-a-Lago.
"He's going to be announced [Friday]…I look forward to doing the formal announcement, although this is a pretty big announcement right now, actually," Trump said. "He's going to head the Department of Interior, and he's going to be fantastic."
Burgum, a multi-millionaire former software company CEO turned two-term governor, launched a White House bid in June 2023. The governor made energy and natural resources a key part of his campaign for the GOP nomination.
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After he dropped out of the race, Burgum became a high profile surrogate for the former president, appearing on the campaign trail and in media hits on Trump’s behalf. He was in consideration as Trump’s running mate this past summer before Sen. JD Vance of Ohio was picked as the Republican Party’s vice presidential nominee.
Communications Director – Steven Cheung
Trump announced Friday, Nov. 15, that Steven Cheung would return to the White House as assistant to the president and director of communications. Cheung previously served as communications director for the Trump-Vance campaign and was the White House director of strategic response in Trump's first term.
Steven Cheung, spokesman for former US President Donald Trump, during a news conference with former US President Donald Trump, not pictured, at Trump National Golf Club in Bedminster, New Jersey, on Thursday, Aug. 15, 2024. (Bing Guan/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
Director of Presidential Personnel – Sergio Gor
Trump also confirmed Friday that Sergio Gor will join the White House as director of the presidential personnel office. Gor, an ally and business partner of Donald Trump Jr.'s, was in charge of the pro-Trump political action committee Right For America and previously worked in Republican Sen. Rand Paul's office.
"Steven Cheung and Sergio Gor have been trusted Advisors since my first Presidential Campaign in 2016, and have continued to champion America First principles throughout my First Term, all the way to our HIstoric Victory in 2024," Trump said in a statement. "I am thrilled to have them join my White House, as we Make America Great Again!"
Sergio Gor is reportedly President-elect Trump's choice to lead the Presidential Personnel Office in the new administration. (Andrew Kelly) (Andrew Kelly)
Press Secretary – Karoline Leavitt
Trump announced campaign spokesperson Karoline Leavitt will serve as White House press secretary for his upcoming administration.
"Karoline Leavitt did a phenomenal job as the National Press Secretary on my Historic Campaign, and I am pleased to announce she will serve as White House Press Secretary," Trump said in a statement Friday evening.
"Karoline is smart, tough, and has proven to be a highly effective communicator. 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."
Leavitt, 27, will be the youngest White House press secretary in U.S. history, unseating Nixon administration press secretary Ron Ziegler, who was 29 when he served in the role from 1969-1974.
Karoline Leavitt will serve as White House press secretary. (MEGA/GC Images)
Assistant to the President and Staff Secretary – William Owen Scharf
William Owen Scharf, one of Trump's lawyers, will serve as Assistant to the President and Staff Secretary starting in January.
In a statement on Saturday, the President-elect wrote that Scharf "is a highly skilled attorney who will be a crucial part of my White House team."
"[Scharf] has played a key role in defeating the Election Interference and Lawfare waged against me, including by winning the Historic Immunity Decision in the Supreme Court," Trump's statement read.
Will Scharf, attorney for former President Donald Trump speaks during a news conference at Trump Tower in New York City, Sept. 6. (Cheney Orr/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
Secretary of Energy – Chris Wright
Chris Wright, the CEO and founder of Liberty Energy, has been picked to lead the Department of Energy, according to a statement President-elect Trump released on Saturday.
"I am thrilled to announce that Chris Wright will be joining my Administration as both United States Secretary of Energy, and Member of the newly formed Council of National Energy," Trump's statement read, adding that Wright "has been a leading technologist and entrepreneur in Energy."
Wright graduated from MIT with a degree in mechanical engineering, according to Liberty Energy's website. He also completed graduate work in electrical engineering at University of California, Berkeley and MIT.
"[Wright] is a self-described tech nerd turned entrepreneur and a dedicated humanitarian on a mission to better human lives by expanding access to abundant, affordable, and reliable energy," the company's website reads.
Liberty Oilfield Services Inc. CEO Chris Wright has been tapped by President-elect Trump to lead the Energy Department. (Reuters/Lucas Jackson)
Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission – Brendan Carr
President-elect Trump announced on Sunday that he has picked Brendan Carr to serve as Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) starting in January.
"Commissioner Carr currently serves as the senior Republican on the FCC. Before that, he was the FCC’s General Counsel," Trump's statement read. "I first nominated Commissioner Carr to the FCC in 2017, and he has been confirmed unanimously by the United States Senate three times."
As a current member of the FCC, Carr recently called out "Saturday Night Live" for platforming Kamala Harris without inviting Trump, which violates FCC rules.
"NBC has structured this in a way that's plainly designed to evade the FCC's rules," Carr said to Fox News Digital. "We're talking 50 hours before Election Day starts, without any notice to other candidates, as far as I can tell."
Commissioner of the Federal Communications Commission Brendan Carr speaks during the 2024 Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in National Harbor, Md. (Celal Gunes/Anadolu via Getty Images)
Secretary of Transportation – Sean Duffy
President-elect Trump announced that he is nominating former Congressman Sean Duffy of Wisconsin, who is also a Fox News contributor and FOX Business co-host, to serve as the U.S. Secretary of Transportation.
"Sean has been a tremendous and well-liked public servant, starting his career as a District Attorney for Ashland, Wisconsin, and later elected to the U.S. House of Representatives for Wisconsin's 7th Congressional District," Trump said in his announcement on Monday. "Sean will use his experience and the relationships he has built over many years in Congress to maintain and rebuild our Nation’s Infrastructure, and fulfill our Mission of ushering in The Golden Age of Travel, focusing on Safety, Efficiency, and Innovation. Importantly, he will greatly elevate the Travel Experience for all Americans!"
While in Congress, Duffy helped advocate for fiscal responsibility, economic growth and rural development.
Duffy joined FOX News Media as a contributor in 2020. He currently serves as the co-host of FOX Business’ The Bottom Line alongside Dagen McDowell. He also provides political analysis across all FOX News Media platforms.
Rep. Sean Duffy, R-Wis., leaves the House Republican Conference meeting in the U.S. Capitol in 2018. (Bill Clark/CQ Roll Call)
Secretary of Commerce – Howard Lutnick
Cantor Fitzgerald CEO Howard Lutnick has been nominated by President-elect Trump to serve as Secretary of Commerce.
"I am thrilled to announce that Howard Lutnick, Chairman & CEO of Cantor Fitzgeral, will join my Administration as the United States Secretary of Commerce," Trump said in a statement. "He will lead our Tariff and Trade agenda, with additional direct responsibility for the Office of the United States Trade Representative."
"In his role as Co-Chair of the Trump-Vance Transition Team, Howard has created the most sophisticated process and system to assist us in creating the greatest Administration America has ever seen," Trump's statement added.
Howard Lutnick, Chairman and CEO of Cantor Fitzgerald and Co-Chair of the Trump 2024 Transition Team speaks at a rally for former US President and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump at Madison Square Garden in New York, October 27, 2024. (ANGELA WEISS/AFP via Getty Images)
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Administrator – Dr. Mehmet Oz
President-elect Trump plans to nominate Dr. Mehmet Oz to serve as the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator starting in January, he announced on Tuesday.
"America is facing a Healthcare Crisis, and there may be no Physician more qualified and capable than Dr. Oz to Make America Healthy Again," Trump said in a Truth Social post. "He is an eminent Physician, Heart Surgeon, Inventor, and World-Class Communicator, who has been at the forefront of healthy living for decades."
Trump wrote that Dr. Oz is expected to "work closely" with Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., who the president-elect nominated to run the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).
Pennsylvania GOP Senate candidate and former TV personality Dr. Mehmet Oz speaks before an appearance by former president Donald Trump to endorse local candidates at the Mohegan Sun Arena on September 03, 2022 in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. (Spencer Platt/Getty Images)
Secretary of Education – Linda McMahon
President-elect Trump is appointing Linda McMahon, former CEO of World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE), to lead the Department of Education.
His announcement, which was posted on Truth Social, came hours after two sources told Fox News that McMahon was likely to be picked. Trump cited the businesswoman's expertise when he made the announcement.
"Linda will use her decades of Leadership experience, and deep understanding of both Education and Business, to empower the next Generation of American Students and Workers, and make America Number One in Education in the World," Trump's statement read. "We will send Education BACK TO THE STATES, and Linda will spearhead that effort."
Linda McMahon, former Administrator of Small Business Administration, speaks on Day 4 of the Republican National Convention (RNC), at the Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S., July 18, 2024. (REUTERS/Mike Segar)
Ambassador to NATO – Matthew Whitaker
Trump is tapping former Acting Attorney General Matthew Whitaker to become U.S. ambassador to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) in his new administration.
Trump described Whitaker, who is from Iowa, as "a strong warrior and loyal Patriot, who will ensure the United States' interests are advanced and defended."
Former U.S. Attorney General Matthew Whitaker speaks during a rally for Republican presidential nominee, former U.S. President Donald Trump at the Brick Breeden Fieldhouse at Montana State University on August 9, 2024 in Bozeman, Montana. (Michael Ciaglo/Getty Images)
"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 said in a statement. "I have full confidence in Matt’s ability to represent the United States with Strength, Integrity, and unwavering Dedication. I look forward to working closely with him as we continue to promote PEACE THROUGH STRENGTH, Freedom, and Prosperity around the World."
"Matt is also the former U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Iowa, and is a graduate of the University of Iowa with a B.A., MBA and J.D., where he played football, and received the Big Ten Medal of Honor," Trump added.
Scott Bessent, founder and chief executive officer of Key Square Group LP, at an interview during the Republican National Convention (RNC) near the Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, US, on Tuesday, July 16, 2024. (Vincent Alban/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
Treasury Secretary – Scott Bessent
Scott Bessent, founder of Key Square Group, was chosen for the coveted post of Treasury secretary. Bessent was a key economic policy adviser and fundraiser for the Trump campaign.
"Scott is widely respected as one of the World’s foremost International Investors and Geopolitical and Economic Strategists. Scott’s story is that of the American Dream," Trump said on Friday.
TRUMP NOMINATES SCOTT BESSENT AS TREASURY SECRETARY; PICKS RUSS VOUGHT TO LEAD BUDGET OFFICE
He has been an advocate for economic policies like lower taxes, spending restraint and deregulation that have long made up the core of the Republican Party's platform, and has also been supportive of Trump's use of tariffs in trade negotiations.
Russell Vought, Trump's director of the Office of Management and Budget from July 2020 to January 2021, openly supports the former president on Twitter. "Enormously important paradigm shift back to the Founder’s Constitution! President Trump is the only one with the courage to take this fight on and deal with the original sin of our spending woes," Vought said in a tweet. (Al Drago)
Office of Management and Budget – Russ Vought
On Friday, Trump tapped Russ Vought to lead the White House's Office of Management and Budget (OMB). Vought served as OMB director during Trump's first term. He also served as deputy OMB director and acting director.
"He did an excellent job serving in this role in my First Term - We cut four Regulations for every new Regulation, and it was a Great Success!" Trump wrote on Truth Social.
Vought is a contributor to the Heritage Foundation's Project 2025 and a close Trump ally.
Scott Turner, former executive director of the White House Opportunity and Revitalization Council, during the America First Policy Institute's America First Agenda summit in Washington, D.C., US, on Monday, July 25, 2022. (Al Drago/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
Secretary of the Department of Housing and Urban Development – Scott Turner
Trump nominated Scott Turner as the secretary of the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Turner, who is chair of the Center for Education Opportunity and is a former professional football player, previously served as executive director of the White House Opportunity and Revitalization Council (WHORC).
TRUMP PICKS SCOTT TURNER AS SECRETARY OF DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT
"Scott is an NFL Veteran, who, during my First Term, served as the First Executive Director of the White House Opportunity and Revitalization Council (WHORC), helping to lead an Unprecedented Effort that Transformed our Country’s most distressed communities," Trump said in a Friday statement. "Those efforts, working together with former HUD Secretary, Ben Carson, were maximized by Scott’s guidance in overseeing 16 Federal Agencies which implemented more than 200 policy actions furthering Economic Development. Under Scott’s leadership, Opportunity Zones received over $50 Billion Dollars in Private Investment!"
Turner, a former Texas state lawmaker, played nine seasons in the NFL as a member of the Washington Redskins, San Diego Chargers and the Denver Broncos.
Lori Chavez-DeRemer, Republican candidate from Oregon, running for the U.S. House of Representatives in the 2022 U.S. midterm elections, appears in an undated handout photo provided October 11, 2022. (Ben Lee/Handout via REUTERS )
Labor Secretary – Lori Chavez-DeRemer
Trump nominated Rep. Lori Chavez-DeRemer, R-Ore., on Friday for secretary of labor.
"I am proud to hereby nominate Congresswoman Lori Chavez-DeRemer, from the Great State of Oregon, as United States Secretary of Labor," Trump wrote in an official statement. "Lori has worked tirelessly with both Business and Labor to build America’s workforce, and support the hardworking men and women of America. I look forward to working with her to create tremendous opportunity for American Workers, to expand Training and Apprenticeships, to grow wages and improve working conditions, to bring back our Manufacturing jobs. Together, we will achieve historic cooperation between Business and Labor that will restore the American Dream for Working Families."
Chavez-DeRemer was first elected to Congress in 2022, and lost re-election in a close race against Democrat Janelle Bynum earlier this month. Her candidacy was backed by the Teamsters Union.
Director of CDC – Dr. Dave Weldon
President-elect Trump announced that former Rep. Dr. Dave Weldon, R-Fla., is his pick as the director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
"In addition to being a Medical Doctor for 40 years, and an Army Veteran, Dave has been a respected conservative leader on fiscal and social issues, and served on the Labor/HHS Appropriations Subcommittee, working for Accountability on HHS and CDC Policy and Budgeting," Trump said in the Friday evening announcement.
Trump said that Dr. Weldon would restore trust in the agency and transparency.
Dr. Janette Nesheiwat, a New York City-based double board-certified doctor, and, Dr. Marty Makary, a Johns Hopkins health policy expert and surgeon, right. (Fox News)
FDA commissioner – Dr. Marty Makary
Trump on Friday nominated Dr. Marty Makary, a pancreatic surgeon at Johns Hopkins University, as commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration.
Makary is the chief of Islet Transplant Surgery at Johns Hopkins, according to the university’s website, and was a Fox News medical contributor.
"FDA has lost the trust of Americans, and has lost sight of its primary goal as a regulator. The Agency needs Dr. Marty Makary, a Highly Respected Johns Hopkins Surgical Oncologist and Health Policy Expert, to course-correct and refocus the Agency," Trump said on Truth Social.
Dr Janette Nesheiwat attends the 2023 FOX Nation Patriot Awards at The Grand Ole Opry on November 16, 2023 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Terry Wyatt/Getty Images)
TRUMP PICKS DR. JANETTE NESHEIWAT AS NATION'S NEXT SURGEON GENERAL
"He will work under the leadership of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to, among other things, 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," Trump said.
Surgeon General – Janette Nesheiwat
Trump also nominated Dr. Janette Nesheiwat as surgeon general, saying that she would be a "fierce advocate and strong communicator for preventative medicine and public health."
"I am proud to announce that Dr. Janette Nesheiwat will be the Nation’s Doctor as the United States Surgeon General. Dr. Nesheiwat is a double board-certified Medical Doctor with an unwavering commitment to saving and treating thousands of American lives," he said.
Nesheiwat is a former Fox News medical contributor.
Sebastian Gorka and Alex Wong will serve under President-elect Trump for a second term. ( (L) Getty Images, (R) Department of State)
Deputy Assistant to the President and Senior Director of Counterterrosim – Sebastian Gorka
Trump announced Friday that his former White House adviser, Sebastian Gorka, will serve in his incoming administration. Gorka will serve as deputy assistant to the president and senior director for counterterrorism.
Gorka, a former Trump aide, previously served as deputy assistant to the president during Trump's first term. He's also a former Fox News contributor.
"Since 2015, Dr. Gorka has been a tireless advocate for the America First Agenda and the MAGA Movement, serving previously as Strategist to the President in the first Trump Administration," Trump said.
Assistant to the President and Principal Deputy National Security Advisor
Similarly to Gorka, Alex Wong served under Trump during his first term.
Wong served in the State Department as deputy special representative for North Korea, and the deputy assistant secretary for East Asian and Pacific affairs.
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