
WASHINGTON: As President-elect Donald Trump prepares for his second term, he has made his first major appointment — his chief of staff. His team also stated that they will fill many high-profile positions in the coming weeks.
Jason Miller, a senior Trump aide, confirmed during an interview with Fox Business that “some familiar faces will return, along with new people joining the team.” Linda McMahon, the former WWE CEO, and Howard Lutnick, the founder of Cantor Fitzgerald, are leading the transition.
Here’s a look at some of Trump’s allies under consideration for key roles:
Chief of Staff:
Trump’s first pick was Susie Wiles, his campaign manager. Wiles, a trusted advisor, was even called on stage by Trump during his victory speech. Known for her tough approach and strategic thinking, Wiles will be the first woman to hold this high-profile position.
Trump praised Wiles, saying, “Susie is tough, smart, and highly respected.” She is a Florida native.
Attorney General:
The Attorney General will hold a critical role in the administration. Trump plans to push forward with mass deportations and address his ongoing legal challenges. Senators Mike Lee and Eric Schmitt, as well as John Ratcliffe, Trump’s former national intelligence director, are reportedly under consideration.
Secretary of State:
The next Secretary of State will play a key role in shaping U.S. foreign policy as Trump moves forward with his “America First” agenda. Ric Grenell, the former ambassador to Germany and acting national intelligence director, is seen as a strong candidate for the role.
Grenell has been blunt about his approach, saying, “If you want to avoid war, you better have a son of a bitch as Secretary of State.”
Florida Senator Marco Rubio is another possible pick for Secretary of State.
Defense Secretary & CIA Director:
The Defense Secretary and CIA Director will have vital roles in national security. Global allies will pay close attention to these appointments. Kash Patel, a former senior Trump official, and Senator John Ratcliffe are among the possible candidates for CIA Director. Arkansas Senator Tom Cotton has reportedly ruled himself out for the Defense Secretary role.
Treasury Secretary:
Scott Bessent, a billionaire hedge fund manager and Trump donor, is seen as a top contender for Treasury Secretary. Bessent will likely play a key role in pushing Trump’s economic agenda, which includes low taxes, deregulation, and protectionist tariffs.
John Paulson, another billionaire investor, is also in the running for a top financial role in the administration.
Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE):

Tesla CEO Elon Musk is expected to lead the new “Department of Government Efficiency.” The department aims to cut $2 trillion from the federal budget. While the specifics of how these cuts will happen remain unclear, Musk’s reputation as an efficient and strict manager suggests sweeping changes.
Other Possible Appointees:
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a vaccine skeptic and nephew of President John F. Kennedy, is expected to play a significant role in Trump’s second term. Trump has hinted that Kennedy could lead health policy initiatives, given his outspoken stance on vaccines.
Former Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard and former Fox News host Tucker Carlson are also rumored to be in line for top positions in the new government.