2 weeks ago
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Donald Trump’s decisive victory in the United States presidential election has sparked a competitive race among his allies for positions in the upcoming administration.
Sources told CNN that the contest for top roles is pitting loyalists against one another as they seek to secure influential spots within Trump’s new government.
Several Trump allies have started contacting members of his inner circle to bolster their chances for key appointments.
Although Trump largely avoided these discussions in recent weeks due to his superstitions, loyalists who believed they had demonstrated their allegiance were eager to position themselves advantageously.
Many hopefuls extended their stays in Florida after attending Trump’s victory events, anticipating potential announcements regarding key positions, which could be made in the coming days, sources indicated.
In preparation for his first days in office, Trump has compiled a series of executive orders, policy plans, and regulatory changes, according to sources.
These moves reflect a president-elect determined to act swiftly after his inauguration.
Prior to the election, transition leaders Howard Lutnick and Linda McMahon met with prospective candidates to discuss potential roles in the administration.
During the campaign, Trump occasionally suggested names for his administration but refrained from deeper discussions, a habit attributed to his superstitious nature.
Now, Trump faces decisions that will shape the administration responsible for executing his ambitious plans to overhaul the federal government.
He has conveyed a desire to reward those who supported him through the challenges of his campaign, reflecting on past appointments from his 2016 term that he later regretted.
During the campaign, Trump distanced himself from Project 2025, an initiative by the Heritage Foundation outlining an expansive agenda and a vetted pool of loyal candidates.
John McEntee, a former director of the White House Presidential Personnel Office, is leading the vetting process and is expected to provide recommendations for key positions.
Other notable figures involved in the vetting include former Trump aides Cliff Sims and Ross Werner.
Some advisers have proposed strategies to expedite background checks to install loyalists more quickly, sidestepping traditional delays. Lengthy and detailed checks posed challenges during Trump’s previous administration and could present obstacles again.
White House Key Roles
One of Trump’s most critical choices will be his White House chief of staff. The position, which saw four occupants during his first term, is crucial to ensuring stability.
Potential candidates include Susie Wiles, co-campaign manager in 2024, who is seen as a leading contender due to her unwavering loyalty.
Russ Vought, Trump’s former budget director, and Brooke Rollins, CEO of the America First Policy Institute, are also being considered.
Bob Lighthizer, Trump’s former U.S. Trade Representative, is another name in the mix.
For the role of White House press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, Trump’s campaign spokesperson, is being considered.
Notable Figures: Musk and RFK Jr.
High-profile supporters, such as Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Elon Musk, pose unique challenges for Trump’s decision-making.
Musk, whose pro-Trump super PAC contributed over $118 million to the campaign, has expressed interest in leading an initiative focused on government spending reductions.
While sources suggest it is unlikely Musk would take on a permanent role due to his existing corporate commitments, a position on an advisory committee could be more feasible.
Kennedy’s broad interests, spanning issues like public health, nutrition, and the environment, have led to discussions about creating a specialized role with direct presidential access.
However, questions remain about Kennedy’s willingness to undergo the clearance process for a Cabinet-level position.
Immigration and Legal Oversight
Trump’s agenda includes plans for strict immigration policies and increased prosecutions of political opponents.
Potential candidates for attorney general include Ken Paxton, Texas’ attorney general, Matt Whitaker, and Sen. Mike Lee of Utah. Jeffrey Jensen, a former U.S. attorney, is among those being considered for FBI director.
National Security and Foreign Policy
Trump’s national security team will be pivotal in reevaluating U.S. foreign relations, with positions such as secretary of state and national security adviser drawing significant interest.
Florida Sen. Marco Rubio, Tennessee Sen. Bill Hagerty, and Richard Grenell are among the contenders for secretary of state. Grenell is also a potential candidate for CIA director, along with Arkansas Sen. Tom Cotton and Rep. Mike Waltz.
Economic Policy Leaders
To support his economic vision, Trump may turn to a mix of trusted allies and financial experts.
Scott Bessent and John Paulson are being considered for Treasury secretary, while Jay Clayton, former SEC chair, is viewed as a potential dark horse.
Lighthizer and McMahon are also in the running for Commerce Secretary.
The transition process, managed by figures such as Kash Patel, underscores the importance of loyalty and alignment with Trump’s vision.
The president-elect’s focus on prioritizing allies and expediting appointments indicates a clear intent to streamline the formation of his administration and avoid past missteps.
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