Trump’s star-studded Mar-a-Lago gala: Bold plans, controversial picks, and a push to start his presidency early

President-elect Donald Trump held a glittering event at his Mar-a-Lago resort on Thursday night, blending Hollywood glamour with political drama. Amid an audience that included actor Sylvester Stallone, conservative power players, and high-profile nominees, Trump delivered a speech packed with bold proclamations, playful warnings, and shocking announcements.

Warning to RFK Jr. and Plans to Start Early

Trump took a moment to single out Robert F. Kennedy Jr., his nominee for Secretary of Health and Human Services. Highlighting the importance of the role, Trump praised Kennedy but jokingly issued a warning: “Don’t get too popular, Bobby.” He urged Kennedy to focus on delivering the groundbreaking health policies he’s long championed, including tackling chronic disease and challenging entrenched practices in the health sector.

Trump also floated an unconventional idea, suggesting his term should begin two months early. Addressing Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, he said, “Maybe you should pass a bill… start my term from November 5, because the market’s gone through the roof, and enthusiasm has doubled.”

Celebrating Electoral Success

In his remarks, Trump celebrated sweeping victories in swing states and claimed credit for a record-breaking stock market surge. For the first time, he noted, he had won the popular vote—a milestone he highlighted with enthusiasm. “The people won it,” he said. “The great people of our country won the popular vote.”

Key Announcements: Controversial Picks

The night was also marked by high-profile cabinet announcements. Trump revealed that South Dakota Governor Doug Burgum, a former presidential rival turned ally, would head the Department of the Interior. Burgum, known for his business acumen and conservative values, has pledged to bring efficiency and innovation to the role.

Another polarizing pick was Attorney General nominee Matt Gaetz, whose announcement just a day earlier had already caused a stir. Gaetz, who resigned from Congress amid a House Ethics Committee probe, has faced allegations of sexual misconduct and drug use. Despite the controversies, Trump defended Gaetz, praising his loyalty to the MAGA movement.

Kennedy’s nomination as Secretary of Health and Human Services also drew sharp reactions. Known for his anti-vaccine rhetoric and unconventional health stances, Kennedy vowed to “Make America Healthy Again” by tackling corruption and providing Americans with better information to make health decisions.

Hollywood Meets Politics

The event wasn’t short on star power. Sylvester Stallone introduced Trump, calling him a figure as legendary as George Washington. Stallone’s remarks, alongside appearances from notable figures like Elon Musk, Kellyanne Conway, and Tucker Carlson, brought a touch of Hollywood to the political gathering.

A Global Guest List

Argentine President Javier Milei, a vocal Trump supporter, also attended the event, marking the first foreign leader to meet with the president-elect since his victory. Milei praised Trump’s leadership and lauded Musk’s role in promoting free speech.

Bold Promises and Controversial Moves

The evening underscored Trump’s determination to shake up Washington with his unconventional style and polarizing choices. His promises of change, coupled with his divisive cabinet picks, set the stage for a presidency that promises to be anything but traditional.

As the glittering event came to an end, one thing was clear—Trump is ready to make waves, and his second term is already shaping up to be as headline-grabbing as his first.