President-elect Donald Trump has named Steven Cheung as White House Communications Director. Cheung, who served as director of strategic response during Trump’s first term, will now be the assistant to the president and director of communications.
New Leadership Team
Trump also appointed Sergio Gor to lead the Presidential Personnel Office. In a statement, Trump expressed his confidence in both men, saying, “Steven Cheung and Sergio Gor have been trusted Advisors since my first Presidential Campaign in 2016, and have continued to champion America First principles throughout my First Term, all the way to our Historic Victory in 2024. I am thrilled to have them join my White House as we, Make America Great Again!”
It’s important to note that the White House communications director role is different from the press secretary, which Trump has not yet announced.
Steven Cheung’s Background
Before joining Trump’s team, Cheung worked as a spokesman for the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). His return signals continuity in Trump’s communication strategy.
Doug Burgum to Lead Department of the Interior
Trump also announced that North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum would head the Department of the Interior. The announcement came during the America First Policy Institute Gala at Mar-a-Lago. Trump expressed excitement about Burgum’s new role, saying, “I look forward to doing the formal announcement, although this is a pretty big announcement right now. He’s going to head the Department of Interior, and it’s going to be fantastic.”
Burgum will replace Secretary Deb Haaland. The Department of the Interior manages public lands, natural resources, and Indian affairs.
Other Notable Appointments
Cheung and Gor are part of a series of appointments made by Trump. Some other notable selections include:
- Pete Hegseth, Fox News host, as Secretary of Defense
- Robert F. Kennedy Jr., former independent presidential candidate, as Secretary of Health and Human Services
- Matt Gaetz, Florida Republican Representative, as Attorney General
These picks highlight Trump’s focus on loyalty and his America First vision as he prepares for his second term.