WASHINGTON — As Donald Trump prepares to reclaim the White House, he is surrounded not only by long-term allies and friends but also by new and high-profile supporters. Although Trump has not yet publicly listed many of the key appointments in his forthcoming administration, he has brought along several familiar faces while campaigning. They stood with him on stage early Wednesday when he announced his victory.
Among these figures is Susie Wiles, who has once again proven valuable to Trump’s campaign. Having joined the 2024 effort early on, she has served effectively as campaign manager and has been announced as Trump’s new chief of staff. Recognized for her steadiness and strategic planning, Wiles managed a largely disciplined campaign that brought Trump victory. A seasoned strategist based in Florida, she directed Trump’s campaigns in the state during both 2016 and 2020 and has been involved in various Republican campaigns, including Rick Scott’s run for governor in 2010.
Lara Trump, married to Trump’s son Eric, also plays a pivotal role in his network. Standing beside Trump during his victory celebration, she has been actively working as co-chair of the Republican National Committee since spring. Previously a television producer, Lara Trump campaigned vigorously for her father-in-law and even considered a Senate run in North Carolina before deciding against it. Her responsibilities at the RNC have included advocating for Trump and enhancing fundraising and outreach initiatives.
Another notable figure is Dana White, president of the Ultimate Fighting Championship, who boasts a longstanding friendship with Trump dating back to 2001 when White hosted a UFC event sponsored by Trump’s Atlantic City casino. White’s visibility at Trump’s events has increased during the recent campaign, where he has helped in engaging younger male voters, and he has spoken publicly at key moments throughout Trump’s campaigns.
Linda McMahon, a longtime ally of Trump and co-chair of the transition team, has a shared history with him through the World Wrestling Entertainment she co-founded with her husband, Vince. Having previously taken the lead at the Small Business Administration during Trump’s first term, McMahon has remained influential in the Trump campaign efforts since his departure from office, actively seeking strategies for Trump’s potential second term.
Howard Lutnick, the CEO of the financial services company Cantor Fitzgerald, has stepped in as co-chair of Trump’s transition team, assisting in the selection of the forthcoming administration’s personnel. Lutnick, who has previously made donations across the political spectrum, featured prominently in Trump’s campaign events, although he faced backlash during the campaign over controversial comments regarding vaccines.
Boris Epshteyn, a lawyer involved in Trump’s various legal dealings and formerly an adviser in his administration, has also been a steadfast aide. Known for his role in the aftermath of Trump’s loss in 2020, Epshteyn faced legal challenges surrounding efforts to contest election results and has made appearances with Trump at various court proceedings.
Stephen Miller is another essential player, having served as a senior advisor focused primarily on crafting Trump’s aggressive immigration policies. Following his time in office, Miller now leads America First Legal, which challenges the current administration on various issues, particularly pertaining to immigration policy.
Richard Grenell, who held positions as both Trump’s ambassador to Germany and the acting national intelligence director, remains a significant foreign policy consultant and is anticipated to be a candidate for secretary of state within the Trump administration. Grenell has gained recognition for his efforts in outreach and strategic discussions regarding international relations during the campaign.
One of the more striking figures in Trump’s circle at present is Elon Musk, the billionaire founder of Tesla and SpaceX. Musk’s recent acquisition of Twitter and its subsequent transformation into X has made waves, as he now champions conservative voices on the platform. His financial backing, including donations and campaign promotion for Trump, signifies an influential relationship, and Trump has suggested Musk could undertake an efficiency commission role within his potential administration.
Lastly, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who gained traction in Trump’s orbit as a surprising ally, initially ran as a Democratic candidate but has since endorsed Trump. Despite his controversial stances, including those on vaccination, Kennedy has indicated ambitions for pivotal roles in health policy should Trump be elected, highlighting potential areas of influence over federal health initiatives.
Brooke Rollins, another prominent associate, may also join the administration, having previously served as Trump’s domestic policy chief and currently leading the America First Policy Institute. Her experiences in think tanks and close work with Texas politics position her as a potential key player in shaping future policies.