Thu Nov 07 22:23:14 UTC 2024: ## Trump’s Cabinet Takes Shape: Key Allies and New Faces Lined Up for Power

**WASHINGTON** – With the 2024 election just months away, President-elect Donald Trump is already moving to fill key cabinet positions and thousands of federal roles. His transition team, led by former WWE CEO Linda McMahon and Cantor Fitzgerald founder Howard Lutnick, is working diligently to finalize selections, with announcements expected in the coming weeks.

While some familiar faces from Trump’s first term are anticipated to return, the President-elect is also bringing in new allies to implement his agenda. Here’s a glimpse at some of the contenders for key positions:

**Chief of Staff:** Susie Wiles, Trump’s senior campaign aide, is considered a frontrunner for this crucial role. Known for her steely demeanor and strategic mind, Wiles is described as the “ice baby” who prefers to operate behind the scenes.

**Attorney General:** With Trump’s focus on immigration enforcement and ongoing legal battles, this position is critical. Republican Senators Mike Lee, Eric Schmitt, and John Ratcliffe, Trump’s former director of national intelligence, are reportedly in the running.

**Secretary of State:** The next top US diplomat will be tasked with implementing Trump’s “America First” foreign policy, potentially leading to major shifts in alliances. Ric Grenell, former ambassador to Germany and acting director of national intelligence, is a contender, known for his outspokenness and loyalty to Trump. Florida Senator Marco Rubio is also mentioned, having previously been considered for Trump’s running mate.

**Defense Secretary and CIA Director:** These positions will be closely watched by US allies. Kash Patel, author of a book on the “deep state,” is being considered for CIA Director, while Senator Ratcliffe is another possibility. Former Secretary of State and CIA Director Mike Pompeo has also been suggested by Trump.

**Treasury Secretary:** Billionaire hedge fund manager Scott Bessent, a key donor and advisor, is seen as a top candidate for this role, responsible for implementing Trump’s economic agenda of low taxes and tariffs. Fellow billionaire John Paulson and transition co-chair Lutnick are also in the running.

**New Department of Government Efficiency:** Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla and the world’s richest man, is expected to lead this newly established department, targeting $2 trillion in cuts from the federal budget. Musk has promised to bring his managerial approach to Washington, ensuring a fair transition for federal workers.

**Other Notable Names:** Robert Kennedy Jr., nephew of former president John F. Kennedy and a prominent vaccine skeptic, is expected to play a significant role in the administration, potentially focusing on health policy. Former Hawaii Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard, a Trump supporter, and Fox News host Tucker Carlson are also rumored to be vying for positions.

While Trump’s first-term advisors Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner have stepped back from politics, it remains to be seen whether other family members will be involved in his second term.

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