ANKARA
US President Donald Trump has drawn attention for his distinctive leadership style and controversial decisions. Beginning his new term, Trump has been assembling a Cabinet and advisory team made up of close associates, high-profile figures, and loyal allies, sparking both interest and debate. Some of them have faced or are facing a rocky road to Senate confirmation.
Trump’s selections reflect his preference for individuals he shares personal or ideological ties with, including business associates, political allies, and even family members.
Marco Rubio
Republican Senator Marco Rubio, known for his hawkish stance on Iran and China and strong pro-Israel views, took office as secretary of state on Jan. 21. Rubio previously served as vice chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee and senior member of the Foreign Relations Committee, focusing on foreign policy and intelligence.
Elon Musk, Vivek Ramaswamy
Trump appointed billionaire Elon Musk, the owner of X, Tesla, and SpaceX, and entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy to lead the Department of Government Efficiency, thought it is not officially a government department. The duo was tasked with reducing bureaucracy, cutting wasteful spending, lowering regulations, and restructuring federal agencies. Trump claimed they would address $6.5 trillion in annual government waste and fraud, aiming to boost the economy and improve public services. However, Ramaswamy stepped down, citing a potential run for Ohio governor.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
Environmental lawyer Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the nephew of late President John F. Kennedy, was nominated to lead the Department of Health and Human Services. His appointment raised concerns among medical experts due to his controversial views on vaccines and health issues. However, Kennedy has garnered support for his advocacy against processed foods and the use of additives.
Mehmet Oz
Cardiothoracic surgeon Dr. Mehmet Oz was nominated to lead the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. If confirmed, Oz would become the first Turkish-American to hold the position. Trump praised Oz as uniquely qualified to "Make America Healthy Again." However, Oz has faced criticism for promoting unproven treatments, including weight loss drugs and malaria drugs as a COVID-19 remedy early in the pandemic.
Kristi Noem
South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem was appointed to head the Department of Homeland Security, a critical role overseeing border security, cyberthreats, terrorism, and emergency response. Noem, a Trump ally, faced controversy after claiming in a 2023 book to have met North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and revealing she euthanized her 14-month-old dog for failing training.
Pete Hegseth
Controversial former soldier and TV commentator Pete Hegseth narrowly won a Senate vote (51-50) to become defense secretary. Hegseth, a two-time Bronze Star recipient, has been a Fox News commentator since 2014. However, his appointment was clouded by allegations of sexual assault, workplace misconduct, and controversial remarks about Muslims.
Scott Bessent
Billionaire investor and hedge fund manager Scott Bessent was nominated to lead the Treasury Department. With over 35 years of experience, Bessent is the founder and CEO of Key Square Group and previously served as chief investment officer at Soros Fund Management.
Pam Bondi
Former Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi was nominated for attorney general. Bondi, who represented Trump at his first impeachment trial, has been a staunch supporter of his policies and worked with Trump allies at the America First Policy Institute.
Howard Lutnick
Businessman Howard Lutnick, co-chair of the Trump transition team, was nominated for commerce secretary. Lutnick was expected to lead the administration’s tariff and trade agenda, having previously been considered for the Treasury secretary role.
Mike Waltz
Florida Republican Congressman Mike Waltz was appointed national security adviser. A veteran of conflicts in Afghanistan, the Middle East, and Africa, Waltz is known for his hawkish views on China. If confirmed, he would play a key role in addressing major foreign policy challenges, including the Russia-Ukraine war and US-China relations.
Steve Witkoff
Real estate mogul Steve Witkoff was appointed special envoy to the Middle East. Witkoff, a longtime Trump associate, was reportedly golfing with the former president at Mar-a-Lago during the second assassination attempt against Trump last September.
Karoline Leavitt
At just 26 years old, Karoline Leavitt became the youngest person in US history to serve as White House press secretary. Leavitt, who previously ran for Congress in New Hampshire, lost her 2022 bid but has since become a prominent figure in the Trump administration.
Susie Wiles
Trump appointed Susie Wiles, one of his campaign managers, as White House chief of staff. Wiles, the first woman to hold the position, was praised by Trump for her dedication and leadership.
Stephen Miller
Longtime Trump adviser Stephen Miller was named White House deputy chief of staff for policy. Known for his hard-line stance on immigration, Miller is expected to lead efforts to reduce both legal and illegal immigration through mass deportations and policy reforms.
Massad Boulos
Lebanese-American businessman Massad Boulos, the father-in-law of Trump’s daughter Tiffany, was appointed an advisor on Arab and Middle East affairs. Boulos played a key role in securing support from Arab American and Muslim voters during Trump’s campaign.
