Donald Trump’s 2024 Election Victory and Cabinet Picks
After his victory in the 2024 US elections, Donald Trump quickly began work on forming his new cabinet. The members of the cabinet, which he announced as the president-elect, also reveal his policies in the administration. Introducing the candidates for Defence Minister and Permanent Representative to the United Nations with the phrase “peace through strength”, Trump emphasised “border security” against immigrants for internal security positions. The announcement of the Doge Ministry, which was established especially for Elon Musk, attracted attention as a “saving” message in the USA.
Elon Musk’s Role in the Cabinet
One of the most striking names in Trump’s cabinet is undoubtedly Elon Musk. The billionaire businessman, who constantly supported Trump in his opposition to illegal immigration, took an active role in the elections and distributed $ 1 million election lottery every week to those who registered for the election. He also donated over $ 100 million to Trump’s election campaign and was at the head of the political group called America Pac, which provided financial support.
Signalling Austerity: There Will Be Budget Cuts
Elon Musk will serve in Trump’s Ministry of Government Efficiency. This ministry states that the US wastes $ 6.5 trillion annually, according to Trump’s statements, and comments are made that it will make budget cuts. It is highly anticipated from which items the first budget cuts under the Trump administration will be made in 2025.
John Ratcliffe to be CIA Director with ‘Closing the FBI’ Success
Former Director of National Intelligence John Ratcliffe was appointed head of the US Central Intelligence Agency(CIA). Ratcliffe was accused by Democrats of helping Trump during his tenure. Trump emphasised Ratcliffe’s steps against Hilary Clinton, saying ‘he caught the FBI abusing civil liberties’.
Pete Hegseth Appointed as Minister of Defence
Pete Hegseth, who has been presenting news on Fox News for 8 years, caused surprise in some circles when he was announced as Minister of Defence. A graduate of Harvard and Princeton, Hegseth is a former soldier who served in Afghanistan, Iraq and Guantanamo Bay and has two Bronze Star medals. “Peace through strength, ” Trump said, referring to Hegseth’s work for veterans.
Steven Witkoff: Special Envoy for the Middle East
Trump appointed Steven Witkoff, a real estate investor and Republican Party donor, as his special envoy to the Middle East. Trump described Witkoff as “Steve will be a steadfast voice for peace”.
Kristi Noem Secretary of Homeland Security
South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem was appointed Secretary of Homeland Security. Noem was criticised on social media for shooting and killing her dog Cricket because she could not train him. Trump praised Noem’s border force support to the Governor of Texas, emphasising her credibility on border security.
Mike Waltz National Security Advisor
While making Mike Waltz‘s appointment, Trump stated that he was ‘the first green beret elected to Congress’. Waltz stands out with his 27-year special forces background and medal of valour. Trump relies on her expertise on global terrorism.
Elise Stefanik: Permanent Representative to the UN
Elise Stefanik, a Harvard graduate, was the youngest senator elected to Congress and the first senator to publicly endorse Trump. Trump emphasised that Stefanik will fight anti-Semitism on university campuses and will work for “peace through strength”.
Susie Wiles: Chief of Staff
Trump appointed Susie Wiles as his Chief of Staff. “It is a well-deserved honour to have Susie as the first female Chief of Staff in the history of the United States, ” Trump said in his announcement. Stating that Wiles has a calm and strong character, Trump gave hints that the negotiations in the Oval Office would not be easy.
Tulsi Gabbard: Director of National Intelligence
Tulsi Gabbard, a former Hawaii Senator and soldier, was appointed Director of National Intelligence. Trump stated that Gabbard is a name that will ensure “peace that comes with power” . Gabbard’s name appears on the ‘Mirotvorets’ website, known as Ukraine’s blacklist.
Marco Rubio: Secretary of State
Born in Miami to Cuban immigrant parents, Marco Rubio has represented the state of Florida in the US Senate since 2011. “Marco is a respected leader and a strong voice for freedom, ” Trump said in announcing Rubio’s appointment.
Matt Gaetz Attorney General
Trump chose Matt Gaetz as the Minister of Justice. He emphasised that Gaetz will be the person who will carry out urgently needed reforms in the Justice Department. This appointment came at a time when Trump was on the agenda with cases filed by federal prosecutors before the election.
