As Donald Trump gears up for his potential second term, the process of selecting his cabinet and other high-ranking officials is already underway. Key positions overseeing defense, intelligence, diplomacy, trade, immigration, and economic policymaking are in play, with several high-profile figures reportedly in the running. Here are some of the leading contenders for these influential roles.
Economic Leadership
Jamie Dimon – Potential Treasury Secretary
JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon has been floated as a strong candidate for Treasury Secretary, although it’s uncertain whether he would take the position. Known for opposing regulations by agencies like the Federal Reserve and SEC, Dimon advocates for their rollback. Despite his history of supporting Democratic candidates, he has privately expressed support for Kamala Harris and critiqued Trump’s role in the January 6 Capitol attack.
Scott Bessent – Potential Treasury Secretary
A former hedge fund investor and advisor to Trump, Scott Bessent is another contender for Treasury Secretary. Bessent’s economic views align closely with Trump’s preference for deregulation and tariffs as negotiating tools. He has praised Trump’s stance on economic nationalism.
John Paulson – Potential Treasury Secretary
Billionaire hedge fund manager John Paulson, a major Trump donor, is also seen as a likely pick for Treasury Secretary. Paulson’s advocacy for tax cuts and deregulation aligns with Trump’s economic agenda. A prominent fundraiser for Trump, Paulson raised over $50 million for the former president’s campaign in April.
Larry Kudlow – Potential Treasury Secretary
Fox News personality Larry Kudlow, who served as director of the National Economic Council during Trump’s first term, is another name being discussed for Treasury Secretary. While privately skeptical of broad tariffs, Kudlow’s economic policies generally align with Trump’s, making him a potential candidate for a prominent economic post.
Robert Lighthizer – Potential Treasury Secretary
A staunch trade skeptic, Robert Lighthizer, who served as U.S. trade representative during Trump’s first term, could make a return to the administration. Although Bessent and Paulson have stronger prospects, Lighthizer’s firm belief in tariffs and trade reform makes him an interesting outside contender.
National Security & Foreign Policy
Richard Grenell – Potential National Security Advisor
A close confidant of Trump, Richard Grenell has been a key figure in Trump’s foreign policy team, having served as acting Director of National Intelligence and U.S. Ambassador to Germany. Known for his controversial foreign policy stances, Grenell could be a strong contender for National Security Advisor, a position not requiring Senate confirmation.
Robert O’Brien – Potential Secretary of State
Former National Security Advisor Robert O’Brien is another name in the mix for top diplomatic roles, including Secretary of State. A hawkish figure with strong ties to foreign leaders, O’Brien’s support for military aid to Ukraine sets him apart from some of Trump’s other advisors.
Bill Hagerty – Potential Secretary of State
Tennessee Senator Bill Hagerty, who previously served as U.S. Ambassador to Japan, is a potential candidate for Secretary of State. With strong ties within the Republican Party, Hagerty is seen as a diplomatic figure who could easily secure Senate confirmation.
Marco Rubio – Potential Secretary of State
Florida Senator Marco Rubio, a long-time foreign policy player, is another prominent candidate for Secretary of State. Known for his stances on Latin American issues, Rubio shares Trump’s views on global diplomacy and could play a key role in the administration’s foreign policy.
Defense & Homeland Security
Mike Waltz – Potential Defense Secretary
Florida Congressman Mike Waltz, a former Army Green Beret, is considered a strong contender for Defense Secretary. Known for his hardline stance on China, Waltz’s military background and political experience make him a top pick for national security positions.
Mike Pompeo – Potential Defense Secretary
Former CIA Director and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, another key figure in Trump’s first term, is a potential candidate for Defense Secretary. While Pompeo’s staunch defense of Ukraine may create tension within the Trump camp, his experience in national security roles makes him a contender for multiple high-ranking positions.
Tom Cotton – Potential Defense Secretary
Arkansas Senator Tom Cotton, a military hawk and Trump donor, is another possible pick for Defense Secretary. With a strong track record on defense and foreign policy, Cotton is considered a serious contender for a leadership role in the administration.
Homeland Security & Immigration
Tom Homan – Potential Homeland Security Secretary
Former acting ICE Director Tom Homan, a staunch advocate for strict immigration policies, is a likely candidate for Secretary of Homeland Security. Homan’s past work on immigration enforcement during Trump’s first term positions him as a key figure for a second-term Trump administration focused on cracking down on illegal immigration.
Chad Wolf – Potential Homeland Security Secretary
Chad Wolf, who served as acting Secretary of Homeland Security during Trump’s first term, is another name being considered. Despite controversy surrounding his appointment, Wolf’s loyalty to Trump’s hardline immigration policies makes him a strong contender for a return to DHS.
Legal & Intelligence
John Ratcliffe – Potential Attorney General
Former Director of National Intelligence John Ratcliffe is another name in the running for Attorney General. Known for his staunch loyalty to Trump, Ratcliffe has drawn both praise and criticism for his politicization of the intelligence role during his tenure.
Mike Lee – Potential Attorney General
Utah Senator Mike Lee, a vocal supporter of Trump and a key figure in attempts to challenge the 2020 election results, is also a top contender for Attorney General. Lee’s strong stance on conservative legal policies makes him a likely pick for the position.
Chief of Staff
Susie Wiles – Potential Chief of Staff
One of Trump’s co-campaign managers, Susie Wiles is seen as a frontrunner for White House Chief of Staff. Known for her efficient and successful campaign management, Wiles could bring much-needed order and structure to the administration.
Brooke Rollins – Potential Chief of Staff
Brooke Rollins, former acting director of Trump’s Domestic Policy Council, is also a contender for Chief of Staff. Rollins is known for her close personal relationship with Trump and her moderate views on certain issues, including criminal justice reform.
As Trump begins the process of assembling his administration, the names of these top contenders offer a glimpse into the direction his second term could take, with a focus on deregulation, economic nationalism, and hardline policies on defense, immigration, and national security.