President-elect Donald Trump is gearing up for a swift transition to power as his allies jockey for influential positions within his upcoming administration.
Post-election, there is an active scramble among President-elect Donald Trump's allies vying for significant roles in his administration, focusing on immediate executive actions and changes in regulations, CNN reported.
Following his decisive electoral win, Trump’s associates, including supporters who stayed in Palm Beach after his victory celebration, are leveraging their proximity to influence pending appointments. Trump, known for his superstition, has refrained from discussing such appointments until he secures a victory; nevertheless, he is expected to make announcements soon.
Loyalty from his presidential campaign appears to be a critical criterion for Trump’s selection process. Consequently, transition leaders Howard Lutnick and Linda McMahon have already started vetting candidates for various administration roles, with a focus on individuals aligned with Trump's objectives.
Meanwhile, Susie Wiles, Trump’s 2024 co-campaign manager, has emerged as a leading contender for White House chief of staff, largely because of her strong rapport with Trump.
In addition, a source close to Trump shared thoughts on Susie Wiles, remarking on her calming influence on the president-elect, stating, “She makes him feel comfortable.” This attribute, therefore, appears to enhance her chances in a fiercely competitive field that also includes Russ Vought, Brooke Rollins, and Bob Lighthizer.
The transition team is considering bypassing traditional background checks to speed up the appointment process for key loyalists. This move underscores how Trump employs unconventional approaches to quickly fulfill his ambitious agenda.
Karoline Leavitt is in the running for White House press secretary, a critical role for the administration's communication strategy. Meanwhile, high-profile supporters Elon Musk and RFK Jr., despite their campaign backing, face uncertainties about their specific roles due to potential confirmation challenges in the Senate.
Regarding RFK Jr., a former Trump official elaborated on potential controversies:
If you dump a bear in Central Park and think you’re above the law, you don’t want to have to go through that gauntlet of political correctness.
National security is another contentious arena with figures like Marco Rubio, Bill Hagerty, Richard Grenell, Tom Cotton, and Keith Kellogg speculated to be eyeing key positions that will be crucial for implementing Trump's policies on matters such as immigration and law enforcement.
Individuals like Scott Bessent, John Paulson, and Jay Clayton—names currently floated for Treasury secretary—are set to shape the economic landscape under Trump. Their expertise will be pivotal for enforcing trade policies and economic regulations aligned with Trump's vision.
A source familiar with economic appointments detailed Bessent’s appeal to Trump:
He’s a former Soros guy who captured the MAGA movement. The president loves that, former Democrats that he’s flipped. That’s why he loves Elon so much.
As Trump prepares to take office, his administration appears poised to push forward a comprehensive agenda involving swift regulatory reversals and executive orders set by him and his transition team. This underscores a government ready to take swift action, heavily backed by loyalists and strategic appointments ensuring the propagation of his policy priorities.
