With President-elect Donald Trump’s sweeping victory, his allies are vying for top roles in the incoming administration, sources told CNN. The competition pits loyal supporters against one another, as they aim for influential positions in the new government.
Some hopefuls have begun reaching out to Trump’s inner circle, while others delayed their flights from Florida, remaining in the Palm Beach area after Tuesday’s victory celebrations. Trump is expected to announce key appointments within days, while also preparing a raft of executive orders and policy shifts set to roll out as soon as he takes office.
Key Positions and Potential Picks
Chief of Staff Contenders
Among Trump’s first crucial decisions is selecting a White House chief of staff. Potential candidates include campaign co-manager Susie Wiles, budget director Russ Vought, and America First Policy Institute CEO Brooke Rollins. Sources close to Trump believe Wiles, a steadfast ally, is the frontrunner.
Press Secretary
Campaign spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt is being considered for the highly visible role of White House press secretary.
High-Profile Allies: Musk and RFK Jr.
Trump must also decide how to utilize polarizing supporters like Elon Musk and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Musk, whose super PAC contributed heavily to the campaign, is interested in slashing federal spending but is unlikely to take on a full-time role due to conflicts with his business interests. A committee appointment is seen as a more feasible fit. Kennedy, meanwhile, may be considered for a role overseeing health, nutrition, and environmental issues but faces hurdles with Senate confirmation and security clearance.
Legal and Immigration Posts
Attorney General
Several names have surfaced for the attorney general role, including Texas AG Ken Paxton, former Acting AG Matt Whitaker, and Sen. Mike Lee. Trump is focused on appointing officials who align with his agenda for mass deportations and potential prosecutions of political adversaries. The Department of Justice and Department of Homeland Security are expected to play central roles in executing these policies.
FBI Leadership
Trump plans to oust current FBI Director Christopher Wray, with former U.S. Attorney Jeffrey Jensen among those considered to lead the FBI under Trump’s vision for a reshaped federal law enforcement landscape.
National Security and Foreign Policy
Secretary of State and National Security Roles
For the State Department, Florida Sen. Marco Rubio and former Ambassador to Japan Bill Hagerty are in the running, alongside Trump loyalist Richard Grenell, who may also be considered for a CIA role. Rep. Elise Stefanik has been floated for the role of UN Ambassador, as well as CIA.
Defense Secretary
Arkansas Sen. Tom Cotton and Rep. Mike Waltz are among those suggested for secretary of defense, with former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo also considered a strong candidate.
Economic Appointments
Treasury and Commerce
Names in consideration for Treasury secretary include billionaire John Paulson, former SEC chair Jay Clayton, and former U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer. McMahon and Lighthizer are also being discussed for the Commerce Department.
Trade Representative
For the role of U.S. Trade Representative, Jamieson Greer, Lighthizer’s former deputy, is the leading contender, poised to carry forward Trump’s tariff-centered policies.
Streamlining the Process and Fast-Tracking Appointments
Advisers have proposed bypassing traditional background checks for select White House roles to quickly install loyalists. Kash Patel, a former Trump security official, is actively managing the influx of job interest within the administration.
With a renewed “America First” mandate, Trump’s national security team will likely spearhead shifts in U.S. foreign policy, including a reassessment of relations with Ukraine, Russia, and China.
