President-elect Donald Trump has finalized his Cabinet selections, unveiling a blend of establishment figures and unconventional picks to lead his administration.
The team reflects a mix of ideological perspectives under the banner of President Trump’s “MAGA” movement. Here’s a detailed look at the key nominees and their backgrounds:
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. – Secretary of Health and Human Services
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a former Democrat and prominent advocate for public health, is a surprising pick for Health and Human Services (HHS).
Known for his pro-choice stance, Kennedy supports abortion access up to the point of fetal viability, typically around 24 weeks. This position has raised concerns among some conservative Republicans.
However, Trump has softened his rhetoric on abortion, favoring a state-by-state approach since the overturning of Roe v. Wade.
Kennedy’s appointment reflects Trump’s willingness to cross party lines, prioritizing pragmatism over ideological purity. As a staunch critic of pharmaceutical companies and a longtime advocate for medical transparency, Kennedy is expected to focus on reforming healthcare regulations and expanding patient rights.
His upcoming Senate confirmation hearings will likely probe his ability to align his views with the administration’s goals.
Lori Chavez-DeRemer – Secretary of Labor
Oregon Representative Lori Chavez-DeRemer, a pro-union Republican, is poised to lead the Department of Labor. Throughout her brief tenure in Congress, she championed labor rights, co-sponsoring legislation like the Protecting the Right to Organize Act. This bill strengthened penalties for labor law violations and made it easier for workers to unionize.
Unions, including the Teamsters and AFL-CIO, have praised Chavez-DeRemer’s pro-worker stance, a notable departure from traditional Republican policies.
Thank you for this opportunity, President Trump!
Working-class Americans finally have a lifeline with you in the White House.
It’s time to bring our economy to new heights and secure a prosperous future for all hardworking Americans. 🇺🇲🇺🇲 pic.twitter.com/72l2VziTKq
— Lori Chavez-DeRemer (@LChavezDeRemer) November 23, 2024
Trump commended her ability to bridge the gap between business interests and labor needs, highlighting her focus on rebuilding the middle class and supporting American workers.
As Labor Secretary, Chavez-DeRemer will face the challenge of navigating competing interests in an administration with historically business-friendly policies.
Scott Bessent – Secretary of the Treasury
Scott Bessent, an accomplished hedge fund manager and former adviser to George Soros, has been nominated as Treasury Secretary.
Bessent’s expertise in finance and investment management aligns with Trump’s economic goals of deregulation, tax reform, and increased domestic production.
Bessent previously served as chief investment officer for Soros Capital Management before founding Key Square Capital Management. His pragmatic approach to economic policy includes support for Trump’s use of tariffs to strengthen American manufacturing.
Bessent is expected to implement “Trumponomics,” focusing on lowering taxes, controlling spending, and boosting small business optimism. His confirmation hearings will likely explore his ties to the financial sector and his approach to balancing fiscal responsibility with economic growth.
Marco Rubio – Secretary of State
Senator Marco Rubio, a former Trump critic turned ally, has been tapped to serve as Secretary of State. Rubio’s foreign policy experience and commitment to strong international alliances, including NATO, make him a logical choice for America’s top diplomat.
Rubio has consistently advocated for U.S. leadership on the global stage, supporting Israel in its conflict with Hamas and opposing continued financial aid to Ukraine.
Trump praised Rubio as a “fearless warrior” who will advance America’s interests while maintaining peace through strength.
Rubio’s priorities as Secretary of State will likely include reshaping U.S. trade agreements, bolstering alliances, and countering adversaries like China and Iran.
Pete Hegseth – Secretary of Defense
Combat veteran and former Fox News host Pete Hegseth is Trump’s pick to lead the Department of Defense. Hegseth served as an Army infantry officer in Iraq and Afghanistan and has been a vocal critic of the Biden administration’s military strategies.
Hegseth faces scrutiny over past allegations of misconduct, which he has denied, but his military background and conservative views make him a natural fit for Trump’s defense priorities.
As Secretary of Defense, Hegseth will oversee efforts to rebuild America’s military strength, modernize defense capabilities, and address emerging global threats.
Pam Bondi – Attorney General
Pam Bondi, a former Florida attorney general and loyal Trump ally, has been nominated as the nation’s top law enforcement officer. Bondi played a prominent role in defending Trump during his impeachment trial and has been a fierce critic of the Biden administration’s Department of Justice.
Trump emphasized Bondi’s commitment to fighting crime and restoring public trust in the DOJ. As Attorney General, she will likely focus on prosecuting violent crime, combating drug trafficking, and addressing allegations of bias within the federal justice system.
Doug Burgum – Secretary of the Interior
North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum will lead the Department of the Interior while also serving as Trump’s newly created “energy czar.” Burgum is a staunch advocate for expanding fossil fuel production and reducing federal regulations on energy development.
Trump praised Burgum’s dedication to achieving U.S. energy independence, a cornerstone of his campaign. Burgum’s responsibilities will include overseeing federal land management, bolstering energy innovation, and promoting environmentally sustainable practices within the energy sector.
Brooke Rollins – Secretary of Agriculture
Brooke Rollins, a Texas native with deep roots in farming, has been nominated as Secretary of Agriculture. Rollins previously served in Trump’s first administration as director of the Domestic Policy Council.
With a background in agricultural development and policy reform, Rollins is expected to prioritize rural development, expand market opportunities for farmers, and advocate for technological advancements in agriculture. Her personal connection to farming communities lends credibility to her role as a champion for America’s agricultural industry.
Kristi Noem – Secretary of Homeland Security
South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem, a staunch Trump supporter, will lead the Department of Homeland Security. Noem has been vocal about border security and immigration reform, aligning closely with Trump’s policies.
Her leadership will focus on enhancing border protection, addressing cybersecurity threats, and streamlining immigration processes.
Trump praised Noem as a “fearless defender of America’s safety,” signaling her pivotal role in shaping his administration’s homeland security strategy.
Sean Duffy – Secretary of Transportation
Former Congressman Sean Duffy has been nominated to lead the Department of Transportation. Duffy, a Republican from Wisconsin and former television host, is tasked with overseeing America’s critical infrastructure, including roads, railways, and air travel systems.
Trump emphasized Duffy’s experience in public service and his commitment to modernizing the nation’s transportation network. As Transportation Secretary, Duffy plans to focus on improving safety standards, increasing efficiency, and championing innovation in travel technologies.
Trump described Duffy as instrumental in ushering in a “Golden Age of Travel,” prioritizing infrastructure projects that will enhance both commerce and convenience for the American public.
In Congress, Duffy worked on several initiatives aimed at infrastructure improvement and rural development. His confirmation hearings will likely address his plans to balance innovation with sustainability while ensuring the equitable allocation of resources to urban and rural areas alike.
Chris Wright – Secretary of Energy
Chris Wright, CEO and founder of Liberty Energy, has been nominated as Secretary of Energy. With a degree in mechanical engineering from MIT and a reputation as a technology innovator, Wright brings a strong technical background to the role.
Wright’s leadership will focus on achieving U.S. energy independence, a central pillar of Trump’s administration. He has been an outspoken advocate for increasing access to affordable and reliable energy through innovation and reducing bureaucratic barriers to production.
Wright’s expertise in the oil and gas sectors aligns with Trump’s vision for an energy-dominant America, emphasizing domestic production and cutting-edge advancements in clean energy technologies.
As Secretary, Wright will also oversee the newly formed National Energy Council, where he will play a key role in shaping policies that balance economic growth with environmental responsibility.
Linda McMahon – Secretary of Education
Linda McMahon, a former WWE executive and prominent GOP donor, has been named Secretary of Education. McMahon brings a unique perspective to the position, having served on the Connecticut Board of Education and previously led the Small Business Administration under Trump’s first term.
McMahon’s priorities will include expanding school choice, modernizing the education system, and improving vocational training programs to prepare students for a competitive job market.
Her nomination has reignited discussions about the role of federal oversight in education, as she plans to advocate for increased local control and private sector partnerships in public schooling.
Trump praised McMahon’s ability to think outside the box, calling her a “dynamic leader” capable of transforming the nation’s education landscape.
Douglas Collins – Secretary of Veterans Affairs
Former Congressman Douglas Collins has been selected to lead the Department of Veterans Affairs. An Air Force Reserve chaplain and advocate for military families, Collins brings a deep understanding of the challenges facing active-duty service members and veterans alike.
Trump highlighted Collins’ unwavering commitment to veterans, stating that his leadership would ensure better healthcare access, streamlined benefits, and stronger mental health resources for America’s heroes.
Collins has also pledged to tackle longstanding inefficiencies within the VA system, aiming to deliver faster and more effective services.
With a history of bipartisan collaboration, Collins is expected to prioritize reforms that improve the quality of life for veterans while fostering a culture of accountability within the department.
Howard Lutnick – Secretary of Commerce
Howard Lutnick, CEO of Cantor Fitzgerald, will serve as Secretary of Commerce. Lutnick’s extensive experience in global markets and economic development makes him a strategic choice to lead this key department.
Lutnick will oversee initiatives to promote domestic manufacturing, streamline international trade agreements, and regulate emerging technologies.
Trump emphasized Lutnick’s expertise in managing complex financial systems and his ability to drive economic growth while protecting American interests in global trade.
As Secretary of Commerce, Lutnick’s priorities will include fostering innovation, supporting small businesses, and advancing policies that enhance U.S. competitiveness in the global economy.
His confirmation hearings will likely focus on his vision for balancing economic expansion with regulatory oversight.
Scott Turner – Secretary of Housing and Urban Development
Scott Turner, a former NFL player and director of the White House Opportunity and Revitalization Council, has been nominated to lead the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
Turner is committed to addressing the housing needs of underserved communities, focusing on affordable housing development and urban revitalization.
During Trump’s first term, Turner spearheaded efforts to attract investment into economically distressed areas through Opportunity Zones, a program designed to stimulate growth in marginalized communities.
As HUD Secretary, Turner plans to expand initiatives that promote homeownership, reduce homelessness, and improve the quality of public housing.
His nomination underscores Trump’s emphasis on empowering local communities and fostering economic mobility through targeted federal programs.