Trump’s Cabinet: A Closer Look at the President-Elect’s Top Picks
A clearer picture has emerged of who will serve in the Cabinet of America’s 47th President. President-elect Donald Trump is moving quickly to assemble a team of key allies, solidifying his administration’s priorities ahead of the inauguration.
The Confirmation Process
All Cabinet choices made by Trump must be confirmed by the Senate, which is set to begin the process in January. The task is expected to be less arduous this time around thanks to the Republicans holding a 53-seat majority in the Senate due to GOP candidates flipping four seats in the recent elections.
Notable Cabinet Picks
On Friday evening, Trump announced several of his top Cabinet selections, featuring a blend of loyal supporters and experienced professionals. Here’s a rundown of the key nominees:
Scott Bessent as Treasury Secretary
Scott Bessent, founder of Key Square Group and a crucial adviser during Trump’s campaign, has been nominated for the position of Treasury Secretary. “Scott is widely respected as one of the world’s foremost international investors and geopolitical and economic strategists,” Trump remarked. Bessent has long advocated for lower taxes, spending restraint, and deregulation—cornerstones of the Republican platform.
More on Scott Bessent’s nomination
Russ Vought for Office of Management and Budget
Trump has re-nominated Russ Vought to lead the White House’s Office of Management and Budget (OMB). Vought served this role during Trump’s first term and is recognized for his contribution to reducing regulations. “We cut four regulations for every new regulation,” Trump proudly stated on Truth Social.
Known as a close ally of Trump, Vought previously contributed to the Heritage Foundation’s Project 2025.
Scott Turner as Housing Secretary
Scott Turner has been tapped as the secretary of the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). A former NFL player and the executive director of the White House Opportunity and Revitalization Council, Turner has previously played a significant role in economic development initiatives. “Under Scott’s leadership, Opportunity Zones received over billion in private investment!” Trump stated.
Lori Chavez-DeRemer for Labor Secretary
Representative Lori Chavez-DeRemer from Oregon has been nominated for Secretary of Labor. Trump expressed pride in nominating Chavez-DeRemer, highlighting her efforts in building America’s workforce and advocating for manufacturing jobs. Despite losing her re-election bid earlier this month, her candidacy was endorsed by the Teamsters union.
Dr. Dave Weldon as CDC Director
Former Representative Dr. Dave Weldon has been nominated as director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). With a medical degree and experience on the Labor/HHS Appropriations Subcommittee, Weldon’s appointment aims to restore trust and transparency to the agency.
Dr. Marty Makary for FDA Commissioner
Trump has chosen Dr. Marty Makary, a pancreatic surgeon and health policy expert at Johns Hopkins University, as the commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). “The FDA has lost the trust of Americans, and Dr. Makary is the right person to bring accountability back to the agency,” Trump asserted.
Dr. Janette Nesheiwat as Surgeon General
In announcing his nomination for Surgeon General, Trump selected Dr. Janette Nesheiwat, citing her as a “fierce advocate for preventative medicine.” With a commitment to public health, Nesheiwat’s role will focus on addressing chronic disease in the United States.
Discover more about Dr. Janette Nesheiwat
Counterterrorism and Strategic Roles
Trump has also integrated former White House adviser Sebastian Gorka into his Cabinet as deputy assistant to the president and senior director for counterterrorism. Gorka previously served under Trump in his first term and is recognized for his advocacy of the “America First” agenda.
Focus on North Korea with Alex Wong
Alex Wong, who previously served at the State Department, will also return to the Trump administration. Wong held the position of deputy special representative for North Korea and deputy assistant secretary for East Asian and Pacific affairs.
Conclusion
As Trump continues to outline his administration, his Cabinet picks reflect a commitment to core Republican values and a trusted circle of advisors. With the confirmation process on the horizon, the incoming administration aims to expedite its agenda and address critical issues facing the nation.
Fox News Digital’s Brie Stimson and Louis Casiano Jr. contributed to this report.
