\\Trump’s Cabinet: Key Picks and Finalists for Second-Term White House Roles\\

President-elect Donald Trump is quickly building his new administration, filling top roles with some of his closest allies and loyal supporters. With only a few days since his election victory, Trump has already secured picks for several high-profile cabinet and White House positions, while others remain in contention as Trump crafts his agenda from Mar-a-Lago.

//President-elect Donald Trump gestures at supporters after speaking as he holds hands with former US//

Homeland Security Secretary: Kristi Noem\\

Trump has reportedly tapped South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem for Secretary of Homeland Security. Noem, a staunch Trump supporter, was initially considered as a possible vice presidential pick. In this role, she will be instrumental in implementing Trump’s strict immigration policies, along with handling cybersecurity and emergency response.

Secretary of State: Marco Rubio\\

Sources say Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) is the leading candidate for Secretary of State. Although Trump once favored Ric Grenell, he has reportedly settled on Rubio, a known China hawk and outspoken critic of authoritarian regimes. Rubio’s appointment would bring a conservative but cautious approach to foreign policy, particularly regarding Ukraine and China.

National Security Adviser: Mike Waltz\\

Rep. Mike Waltz (R-Fla.), a former Army Green Beret, is Trump’s pick for National Security Adviser. Waltz is known for his strong stance against China and his advocacy for greater defense contributions from NATO allies. Waltz’s presence will bolster Trump’s preference for a defense strategy focused on U.S. interests.

Former Rep. Lee Zeldin (R-N.Y.) has been named EPA Administrator, a choice aligned with Trump’s deregulatory policies. Zeldin is expected to prioritize streamlined environmental policies that balance business interests with environmental standards.

Trump is expected to bring back Stephen Miller, a key adviser in his first administration known for his stringent immigration policies. Miller’s role as Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy will be central to advancing Trump’s vision on border control and domestic policies.

Former ICE Director Tom Homan has been appointed Border Czar, where he will oversee Trump’s ambitious immigration initiatives, including plans for mass deportations and border security enhancements.

Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.), currently the GOP Conference Chair, has accepted Trump’s nomination as U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations. Her appointment reflects Trump’s focus on conservative influence in international diplomacy.

Chief of Staff: Susie Wiles\\

Trump’s campaign co-manager Susie Wiles was named Chief of Staff, marking her as the first woman to hold the role. Her appointment solidifies her role in managing Trump’s team and second-term agenda.

Top Contenders for Key Roles\\

**Attorney General: Names under consideration include Sen. Mike Lee (R-Utah), former DNI John Ratcliffe, and former Trump adviser Kash Patel. Trump has also shown interest in Federal Judge Aileen Cannon, who dismissed his classified documents case.

**Treasury Secretary: Potential picks include Sen. Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), former U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer, and finance executives Scott Bessent and John Paulson. Trump is reportedly leaning towards a candidate with Wall Street expertise.

**Defense Secretary: House Armed Services Chair Rep. Mike Rogers (R-Ala.) is reportedly in discussions with Trump’s team about leading the Defense Department.

**Energy Secretary: North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, who was instrumental in Trump’s energy policy discussions, is a likely choice. He may also serve as an “energy czar,” coordinating energy initiatives across agencies.

**CIA Director: Candidates include Ratcliffe, Waltz, and Patel, each bringing a strong background in intelligence and national security.

**Education Secretary: Former Education Secretary Betsy DeVos has expressed interest in returning, while former GOP candidate Vivek Ramaswamy is also a possible contender.

Special Roles for RFK Jr., Elon Musk, and Vivek Ramaswamy\\

Trump has suggested that Robert F. Kennedy Jr. could have a major role in health policy, especially regarding vaccine safety. Vivek Ramaswamy is expected to take on a prominent role, and Trump has hinted at a potential position for Tesla CEO Elon Musk as the head of a new “government efficiency commission.”

Trump’s transition plan is influenced by prominent supporters, including billionaire backers and right-wing think tanks like the America First Policy Institute. With the backing of figures like Musk and guidance from his loyal aides, Trump is building a cabinet that reflects his agenda for a “government overhaul.”This latest lineup highlights a White House poised to pursue a conservative agenda while balancing key national security concerns, potentially reshaping America’s foreign policy and domestic landscape for years to come.