Live Updates: Trump’s Transition Plans and Key Appointments

In anticipation of his January return to the White House, Donald Trump has compiled a list of important loyalists for senior roles in his new government. Even though the Senate must approve some of these nominations, Trump is avoiding the usual screening process by appointing people during break.

The following lists the leading individuals that Trump has nominated for important positions:

Government Efficiency Department's Elon Musk

Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk, a multibillionaire entrepreneur, has been appointed to head a new Department of Government Efficiency. Musk, who has a reputation for being an ambitious manager, wants to eliminate $2 trillion from the $7 trillion federal budget, though it's still unclear just how much. Any federal employees impacted by these changes would have a "fair and humane" transfer, according to Musk's pledge. Co-leading this division will be biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy.

Defender Pete Hegseth Fox News anchor and U.S. Army veteran Pete Hegseth is the nominee for Defence Secretary. Hegseth, who is well-known for his strong conservative opinions, will assume command of the American military. Trump says he's the ideal guy to keep America's adversaries "on notice."

Department of Homeland Security's Kristi Noem

The South Dakota governor, Kristi Noem, will lead the Department of Homeland Security. As a long-time Trump supporter, Noem has been an outspoken supporter of deportations and other stringent immigration laws. Her leadership will be essential to implementing Trump's immigration reform policies.

Envoy Elise Stefanik of the United Nations

Trump has chosen Elise Stefanik, a rising Republican star and ardent pro-Israel advocate, to be the United States ambassador to the UN. She will speak on behalf of the United States at the United Nations amid turbulent world events, such as the ongoing conflict between Israel and Gaza and the war in Ukraine.

Mike Waltz, Advisor on National Security

Congressman and former special forces officer Mike Waltz is the nominee for National Security Advisor. Waltz will concentrate on addressing important international policy issues, such as the battles in Ukraine, Gaza, and Lebanon. He has criticized both China and Russia. Trump's harsh approach to China is consistent with his belief that the nation poses an "existential threat."

The American ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee

The nominee for the position of U.S. Ambassador to Israel is Mike Huckabee, a former governor of Arkansas. Huckabee has long backed Israeli policies and been an outspoken supporter of Israeli settlements in the West Bank. He is well-known for his strong Christian Zionist beliefs.

Agency for Environmental Protection's Lee Zeldin

A Republican congressman from New York named Lee Zeldin is proposed to head the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Zeldin's responsibilities will probably center on deregulating businesses and lowering climate restrictions, which is consistent with Trump's pro-business policies.

The Border Czar, Tom Homan

The "Border Czar" is Tom Homan, a veteran immigration official. Trump has stated that Homan will lead U.S. border enforcement activities and supervise the deportation of illegal immigrants.

Staff Chief Susie Wiles

The new chief of staff is Susie Wiles, who managed Trump's campaign. Wiles is anticipated to be a key figure in overseeing the daily activities of the White House.

The Director of CIA, John Ratcliffe

John Ratcliffe will lead the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), having previously served as Director of National Intelligence. Along with Trump's distrust of the American intelligence establishment, Ratcliffe, a close ally of the president, has been a loud critic of the FBI and other intelligence organizations.

The anticipated Secretary of State is Marco Rubio.

It is anticipated that Senator Marco Rubio will be named Secretary of State, despite this not being verified formally. Because of his foreign policy beliefs, especially his tough stance against China and support for Israel, Rubio plays a significant role in Trump's strategy for international diplomacy.

Scott Bessent, a prospective Treasury Secretary

The position of Treasury Secretary is being explored for billionaire hedge fund manager Scott Bessent. As a significant contributor and counselor to Trump, Bessent is anticipated to support Trump's economic plan by promoting tax cuts, deregulation, and increased tariffs.

By making these choices, Trump is putting together a group of devoted supporters and seasoned professionals who support his vision for the nation, which includes everything from economic deregulation to a tough stance on immigration and international relations. The way these individuals influence the future of American governance will be closely watched when the new administration is formed.