On Wednesday, Republican candidate Donald Trump made a historic return to the White House, defeating Democrat Kamala Harris despite facing a criminal conviction and two impeachments during his time in office. At 78 years old, Trump will become the oldest president in U.S. history when he is inaugurated on January 20. With a resounding victory, Trump now embarks on his second term as the 47th president of the United States, vowing to fulfill his campaign promise to “make America great again.”
Key Figures in Trump’s New Administration
Trump’s victory ushers in a new era for the White House, bringing in a variety of figures who are expected to play crucial roles in his administration.
JD Vance – Vice President
JD Vance, author of the bestselling memoir Hillbilly Elegy, is set to become Trump’s Vice President, despite previously calling Trump “America’s Hitler.” At 40 years old, Vance will be the third-youngest person to hold the position of Vice President in U.S. history. Vance had been a vocal critic of Trump before joining his team, but his shift in allegiance signals a pivotal change in his political trajectory.
Elon Musk – Key Adviser and Government Auditor
Billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk, who had once suggested Trump should “hang up his hat and sail into the sunset,” is now playing a critical role in Trump’s return to power. In a dramatic shift, Musk spent over $110 million of his personal fortune to support Trump’s campaign. Trump has announced plans to appoint Musk, the CEO of Tesla, SpaceX, and X (formerly Twitter), to audit the U.S. government with a focus on cutting waste. At 53, Musk is also expected to have a significant advisory role in space and business policy.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. – Potential Cabinet Member
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., nephew of the late President John F. Kennedy, initially ran as an independent candidate but later withdrew from the race to endorse Donald Trump. Kennedy has been a vocal critic of the current state of the U.S. healthcare system and has vowed to fight issues like fluoride in drinking water. In his victory speech, Trump pledged to offer Kennedy a major role in healthcare reform. Speculation suggests that Kennedy, 70, could be appointed to a cabinet position, with many predicting he will take on the role of Secretary of Health and Human Services. “He will make America healthy again,” Trump declared.
Other Key Figures in Trump’s 2024 Administration
Several other notable names are rumored to be part of Trump’s second administration:
- Richard Grenell: The former U.S. Ambassador to Germany is being considered for the role of National Security Advisor or Secretary of State.
- Susie Wiles: A key campaign aide and strategist for Trump’s comeback, Wiles is expected to take on the role of White House Chief of Staff.
- Doug Burgum: The Governor of North Dakota is a top contender for the position of Energy Secretary.
- Tom Cotton: The Republican Senator from Arkansas is being considered for the position of Defense Secretary.
- Vivek Ramaswamy, Elise Stefanik, and Lee Zeldin: Other Republicans who are reportedly open to serving in Trump’s new administration.
With a mix of experienced political figures and new faces, Trump’s administration is set to bring a blend of controversial and influential personalities into the White House, signaling a shift towards bold changes in the direction of U.S. governance.
