Donald Trump's potential cabinet lineup sparks speculation after election win

By Hakan Copur

WASHINGTON (AA) - Donald Trump's victory in Tuesday’s US presidential election has triggered intense speculation about his future cabinet appointments, with several familiar faces from his first term mentioned as potential nominees.

Trump, who will officially take office on Jan. 20, 2025, faces the task of filling approximately 4,000 executive branch positions, including 1,200 requiring Senate confirmation.

Former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo leads the list of potential nominees to head the State Department. Pompeo, who previously served as CIA director in 2017-2018, could return to his post as the top US diplomat.

Florida Senator Marco Rubio, known for his hawkish stance on Russia, Iran, and China, has also emerged as a potential secretary of state candidate. Rubio, a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, has indicated his willingness to serve if asked.

Other contenders for top diplomatic posts include Arkansas Senator Tom Cotton, former National Security Advisor Robert O'Brien, former US Ambassador to Germany Richard Grenell, and Tennessee Senator Bill Hagerty.

For the defense secretary position, media reports suggest Pompeo and Cotton are under consideration, alongside Florida Representative Mike Waltz, a former Green Beret who previously advised defense secretaries Donald Rumsfeld and Robert Gates.

The Treasury secretary shortlist includes investor Howard Lutnick, who will manage Trump's transition team, former Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer, and former SEC Chairman Jay Clayton. Larry Kudlow, who served on Trump's National Economic Council during his first term, and billionaire investor John Paulson are also being considered for the post.

Former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy is rumored to be the leading candidate for White House chief of staff, while campaign manager Susie Wiles and former White House adviser Brooke Rollins are also in contention.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who withdrew from the presidential race to support Trump, could also get a cabinet position, possibly as health secretary or in an advisory role. His views opposing vaccination requirements and the fluoridation of drinking water have alarmed some public health advocates.

Utah Senator Mike Lee is being considered for attorney general, while former presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy might head homeland security. North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum is viewed as a potential energy or interior secretary.

Tech entrepreneur Elon Musk, who gave large financial and moral support to Trump's campaign, is expected to take an advisory position in the new administration.

Unlike his first term, Trump's nominees may face a smoother confirmation process, with Republicans holding a majority in the Senate.