Inside Trump’s Inauguration: Surprising Appointments and Top Policy Focus

Sign at crowded rally for Trump campaign.

President-elect Donald Trump’s transition team is in high gear, assembling a cabinet and setting ambitious Day 1 priorities for his return to the White House in 2025.

At a Glance

Susie Wiles appointed as chief of staff, the first woman in this role
Key positions filled include Tom Homan as “border czar” and Elise Stefanik nominated for UN ambassador
Trump’s Day 1 agenda includes closing the border, increasing drilling, and imposing tariffs on Mexico
Transition process involves filling 4,000 positions, with 1,200 requiring Senate confirmation
Trump plans to meet with President Biden to discuss peaceful transition, focusing on Russia-Ukraine conflict

Cabinet Assembly and Key Appointments

As Inauguration Day 2025 approaches, President-elect Donald Trump is actively assembling his cabinet, focusing on strategic appointments for his upcoming administration. The transition team is prioritizing key departments such as State, Defense, and Treasury, signaling immediate attention to foreign policy, national security, and economic reform.

Susie Wiles has been appointed as Trump’s chief of staff, marking a historic moment as the first woman to hold this position. Former acting ICE Director Tom Homan is set to serve as “border czar,” a role previously assigned to Vice President Kamala Harris under the Biden administration. Rep. Elise Stefanik, praised by Trump for her strong support, has been nominated as UN ambassador.

Transition Process and Congressional Relations

The transition process involves filling approximately 4,000 positions, with 1,200 requiring Senate confirmation. This task is expected to be smoother with a Republican-controlled Senate. Trump’s team is making early announcements for high-profile roles, with Senate confirmation hearings to follow.

Establishing relationships with Congress is crucial for advancing major initiatives within the first 100 days. The transition team is working on refining policies on healthcare, immigration, and energy, preparing for immediate action post-inauguration. Public and stakeholder reactions to cabinet selections will play a significant role in shaping the narrative around the new administration.

Day 1 Priorities and Policy Focus

Trump’s Day 1 priorities are ambitious and focused on immediate action. They include closing the border, increasing drilling, launching a large deportation program, and imposing tariffs on Mexico. The president-elect also plans to pardon some Capitol rioters and cut federal funding for schools promoting certain ideologies.

In the realm of international affairs, Trump opposes further funding to Ukraine and has communicated with both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. He plans to meet with President Joe Biden to discuss a peaceful transition of power, with the Russia-Ukraine war likely being a key topic.

Potential Cabinet Members and Their Roles

Several high-profile individuals are being considered for key positions in the Trump administration. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is expected to join, focusing on health initiatives such as ending fluoride in tap water. Elon Musk is under consideration for the Department of Government Efficiency, with the goal of cutting $2 trillion from the federal budget.

John Paulson is a potential Treasury secretary, with plans to cut green projects and impose tariffs on Chinese companies. Richard Grenell is a contender for secretary of state or national security advisor, advocating for a tough diplomatic approach. Tulsi Gabbard is also being considered for a national security position.

Looking Ahead

As the transition progresses, preparations for the inaugural address and initial executive actions are underway, setting the tone and focus for the new administration. Trump’s agenda is characterized by bold promises and a commitment to immediate action, reflecting a governance strategy concentrated on national prosperity and decisive leadership.

The coming weeks will be critical as the Trump team finalizes appointments, refines policy objectives, and prepares to hit the ground running on January 20, 2025. The success of this transition period will likely set the stage for the administration’s effectiveness in implementing its ambitious agenda.