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Following his narrow victory in the November 5 election, U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has announced a series of cabinet nominees and appointees who will form the core team for his second term.
These initial choices, covering areas from environmental policy to border control, reflect Trump’s focus on returning to many of the “America First” principles that shaped his first presidency.
Trump’s administration is set to begin on January 20, 2025, and he has emphasised that these appointments will steer the nation towards what he calls a “renewed American strength.”
Here is a list of Trump’s appointments so far:
Environmental Protection Agency Administrator: Lee Zeldin
Lee Zeldin, a former New York Congressman and Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve, has been selected to lead the Environmental Protection Agency.
Zeldin, 44, has previously voiced scepticism towards the Paris Agreement, advocating for a version that imposes stricter standards on all signatory nations.
In his acceptance message, he emphasised goals to “restore U.S. energy dominance” and strengthen the automotive industry while upholding standards for clean air and water.
National Security Advisor: Mike Waltz
Trump’s choice for National Security Advisor, Mike Waltz, brings a military-focused approach to U.S. foreign policy.
Waltz, a U.S. Army Green Beret and Congressional representative for Florida, has served in Afghanistan and written extensively about his military experience. Waltz’s addition signals a focus on defence readiness, especially concerning U.S.-China relations.
As part of the House China Task Force, Waltz has previously identified key threats and advocated for proactive measures to counter Chinese influence.
White House Chief of Staff: Susie Wiles
Susie Wiles, known for her significant role in Trump’s 2024 campaign, is appointed as the White House Chief of Staff.
Wiles, 67, has a long history in Republican politics, including advising Florida Governor Ron DeSantis during his initial gubernatorial campaign.
Trump acknowledged Wiles’ influence during his victory speech, referring to her as “the Ice Baby,” a moniker that reflects her reserved yet determined approach.
Border Czar: Tom Homan
Former ICE Director Tom Homan will reprise a prominent role within Trump’s administration as the newly appointed Border Czar.
Known for his tenure under Trump’s first administration, Homan, 62, has advocated for strict immigration enforcement.
Trump has vowed that Homan will oversee the “largest deportation operation in U.S. history” as part of a campaign to curb illegal immigration.
Ambassador to the United Nations: Elise Stefanik
Elise Stefanik, a Republican Congresswoman from New York, has been named Ambassador to the United Nations.
At 40, Stefanik is a vocal figure in the GOP, known for her questioning of university officials during congressional hearings on antisemitism. Stefanik’s appointment aligns with Trump’s goals for reforming
U.S. foreign relations, including his commitment to ending the conflict in Ukraine.
Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy: Stephen Miller
Stephen Miller, a key architect of Trump’s first administration immigration policies, returns as Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy. Miller’s focus on stringent immigration measures and American sovereignty has been a hallmark of his advocacy, both in government and through his America First Legal Foundation.
His recent rally speech emphasising “America is for Americans” underscores the administration’s planned focus on restrictive immigration policies.
As Trump’s team begins to take shape, the emphasis on strong national defence, limited immigration, and a recalibrated approach to climate policy reflects the values of Trump’s base, signalling a return to many of the policies that defined his first term.
The National Post reports that further appointments and policy outlines are expected in the coming weeks as the administration prepares for its January inauguration.
