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Updated 3/27/25 at 3:00pm ET
The Senate confirmation process is nearly complete for President Donald Trump's Cabinet officials.
Certain roles, like attorney general or secretary of defense, must be confirmed by the Senate. Other roles like "border czar" or leading the "Department of Government Efficiency" don't need such ratification.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS
- Trump withdrew Elise Stefanik's nomination as UN Ambassador.
- Mike Huckabee began hearings for Ambassador to Israel.
- Jay Bhattacharya was confirmed as NIH Director.
(Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)
Ambassador to the United Nations - Elise Stefanik
Withdrew
March 27, 2025 — White House Withdraws Nomination of Elise Stefanik as US Ambassador to UN
Trump confirmed news that he would withdraw Stefanik's nomination so she can remain in the House of Representatives and reinforce the Republicans' slim majority.
January 22, 2025 – Stefanik Faces Senate Hearing
Speaking before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Stefanik called to reform the U.N., accusing it of having an anti-Israel bias and going against its “mission of international peace and security” during the ongoing Israel-Hamas War. She also touted a claim that the U.N. Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) was negligent in funding individuals with ties to Hamas.
November 10, 2024 – Trump Taps Elise Stefanik for UN Ambassador
The New York Post (Lean Right) reported that Trump selected Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-NY) to be his ambassador to the United Nations and that she had accepted the position. Some media outlets have highlighted that Stefanik previously dissented against some of Trump’s policies and has expressed strong support for Israel and Ukraine. Stefanik also played a key role in the questioning of Ivy League university presidents over pro-Palestinian protests happening on their campuses.
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CDC Director - David Weldon
Withdrew
March 13, 2025 — White House Withdraws Nomination for CDC Director
The White House withdrew Weldon's nomination hours before he was scheduled to testify before a Senate committee. An anonymous source told Fox News (Right bias) not enough senators were willing to vote for him.
December 1, 2024 — Anti-vaxxers and abortion opponents celebrate Trump's pick to run CDC (Source: Mother Jones, Left bias)
November 22, 2024 — Trump names Dave Weldon as his pick to direct the CDC (Source: Reuters, Center bias)
Dr. David Weldon is a medical doctor and former Florida representative in Congress from 1995 to 2009. He has previously raised concerns about the link between vaccination and autism, identifying mercury as a potential cause. During his time in Congress, Weldon co-sponsored legislation to ban mercury in vaccines.
(Tom Williams/Getty Images)
NIH Director - Jay Bhattacharya
Confirmed
March 25, 2025 – Senate confirms Bhattacharya to lead NIH (Source: Roll Call, Center)
Senators voted 53-47 along party lines to confirm Bhattacharya.
March 11, 2025 – 5 takeaways as Trump’s contrarian NIH pick faces senators (Source: The Hill, Center)
November 27, 2024 – Trump Nominates Dr. Jay Bhattacharya for NIH Director
Trump nominated Dr. Jay Bhattacharya, a Stanford University health researcher and economist, to lead the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Bhattacharya is a professor of medicine, economics, and health research policy, and director of the Center for Demography and Economics of Health and Aging at Stanford University. He was one of three authors of The Great Barrington Declaration, an open letter that criticized the handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and reported endorsements from over 50,000 health and science professionals. Trump said Bhattacharya RFK Jr. will work in tandem “as they examine the underlying causes of, and solutions to, America's biggest Health challenges, including our Crisis of Chronic Illness and Disease.”
(AP Photo/Rod Lamkey, Jr.)
Navy Secretary - John Phelan
Confirmed
March 25, 2025 – Senate Confirms Investment Banker John Phelan as Navy Secretary (Source: Military.com, Lean Left bias)
November 26, 2024 – Trump taps financier and donor Phelan to be Navy secretary (Source: Politico, Lean Left bias)
(Bill Clark/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images)
Labor Secretary - Lori Chavez-DeRemer
Confirmed
March 11, 2025 – Lori Chavez-DeRemer Confirmed as Labor Secretary in Bipartisan Vote
The Senate voted 67-32 to confirm Chavez-Deremer, with 13 Democrats in support.
February 19, 2025 – Lori Chavez-DeRemer, Trump's pro-union pick for labor secretary, appears at confirmation hearing (Source: CBS News, Lean Left bias)
December 6, 2024 – Trump's Pick for Labor Secretary Illuminates a Political Realignment
Trump nominated Rep. Lori Chavez-DeRemer (R-OR) for Labor Secretary, emphasizing her ties to the working class and bipartisan labor support. Chavez-DeRemer, who served one term in Congress before losing her reelection bid, received backing from the Teamsters union, which has traditionally supported Democrats. Notably, she co-sponsored the PRO Act, which seeks to expand labor protections. Chavez-DeRemer’s selection will not impact the GOP House majority, as she no longer holds her seat.
Sen. Ron Paul (R-KY) is the only Republican who has publicly pulled his support, opposing Chavez-DeRemer's pro-labor policies.
(Wikimedia Commons)
Education Secretary - Linda McMahon
Confirmed
March 4, 2025 – Linda McMahon Confirmed as U.S. Education Secretary
February 13, 2025 – Linda McMahon ‘all for’ Trump’s mission to ‘return education to states’ (Source: NewsNation, Center)
November 19, 2024 – What Will Trump Do With the Department of Education?
Trump nominated Linda McMahon, former WWE CEO and co-chair of his transition team, as education secretary. McMahon previously served as head of the Small Business Administration during Trump’s first presidency and is currently board chair of the pro-Trump America First Policy Institute. She has limited experience in education but served briefly on Connecticut’s board of education and is expected to lead efforts to transfer control of education policy from the federal Department of Education to individual states.
(MormonWiki)
Trade Representative - Jamieson Greer
Confirmed
February 26, 2025 – Senate confirms Jamieson Greer to be US trade representative (Source: Politico, Lean Left)
Nov. 26, 2024 – Trump Names Lawyer Jamieson Greer His US Trade Envoy (Source: Barron's, Center)
Greer would manage Trump’s trade policy with the Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick.
(Christopher Goodney/Bloomberg via Getty Images / Getty Images)
Commerce Secretary - Howard Lutnick
Confirmed
January 29, 2025: Lutnick says he won’t dismantle NOAA as called for in Project 2025 (Source: The Hill, Center bias)
November 19, 2024 – Trump Taps Wall St. Executive Howard Lutnick for Commerce Secretary (Source: New York Times, Lean Left bias)
Trump announced he would nominate Howard Lutnick to serve as commerce secretary. Lutnick is the chair and CEO of the finance companies Cantor Fitzgerald and BGC Group and has endorsed Trump’s discussed tariff policies. Lutnick is a longtime friend of Trump’s and has advocated for cryptocurrencies.
(Rebecca Noble/Getty Images)
FBI Director - Kash Patel
Confirmed
Feb. 20, 2025 - Kash Patel Confirmed as FBI Director
Patel was confirmed 51 to 49. All Republican senators voted to confirm him except for Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska.
Feb. 18, 2025 - Opinion: Confirm Kash Patel (Source: Washington Times, Lean Right bias)
Feb. 18, 2025 - Opinion: Kash Patel could use FBI for revenge (Source: Portland Press Herald, Lean Left bias)
Feb. 13, 2025 – Trump FBI pick Kash Patel clears Senate panel, headed for confirmation vote (Source: Reuters, Center bias)
January 31, 2025 – Kash Patel Undergoes Senate Confirmation Hearing
December 4, 2024 – Is Kash Patel a Good Pick for FBI Director?
December 1, 2024 – Trump to Nominate Kash Patel for FBI Director
Trump announced plans to nominate his former aide Kash Patel to lead the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). If appointed, Patel would replace current FBI Director Christopher Wray, whose term isn’t set to expire until 2027. Patel has called for mass firings at the FBI, and accused the "deep state" of undermining Trump during his first term. He’s been a vocal critic of investigations into Trump’s 2016 campaign over alleged collusion with Russia, and has called for stripping the security clearances of those involved. Patel served in multiple roles during Trump’s first administration, including chief of staff to the head of the Pentagon and senior counsel to the House of Representatives intelligence committee in 2017.
(Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images)
HHS Secretary - Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
Confirmed
February 13, 2025 — RFK Jr. Confirmed as Health and Human Services Director
The Senate confirmed Kennedy in a 52 to 48 vote on Thursday.
February 12, 2025 — Senate tees up final vote on RFK Jr. to lead HHS (Source: The Hill, Center bias)
February 5, 2025 – On RFK Jr., Sen. Bill Cassidy has to decide which of his careers comes first (Source: Politico, Lean Left bias)
January 29, 2025 – Robert F. Kennedy Jr. struggles to answer questions on Medicare and Medicaid at confirmation hearing (Source: Associated Press, Left bias)
January 29, 2025 – RFK Jr. faces political headwinds going into confirmation hearings (Source: Washington Examiner, Lean Right bias)
December 17, 2024 – RFK Jr. has public health leaders quietly hopeful — and scared as hell (Source: Politico, Lean Left bias)
November 14, 2024 – ‘MAKE AMERICA GREAT AND HEALTHY’: Trump Taps RFK Jr. for Health and Human Services (Source: Daily Signal, Right bias)
Trump nominated Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to lead the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Kennedy is an environmental lawyer and activist who has often advocated for a cleaner environment and against certain vaccinations and the pharmaceutical industry, among other things. In the 2024 presidential election, Kennedy ran for president as a Democrat, before switching to run as an Independent. In August, Kennedy suspended his campaign and endorsed Trump as part of an initiative the two launched dubbed Make America Healthy Again. Kennedy is the nephew of former President John F. Kennedy, and son of former New York Senator Robert F. Kennedy, both of whom were assassinated while in office.
October 30, 2024 – RFK Jr. Says Trump Would Put Him in Charge of Public Health, Trump Campaign Clarifies
(Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)
National Intelligence Director - Tulsi Gabbard
Confirmed
February 12, 2025 – Tulsi Gabbard Confirmed as Director of National Intelligence
February 5, 2025 – Tulsi Gabbard's confirmation advances to the Senate floor (Source: The Blaze, Right bias)
November 13, 2024 – Trump Names Tulsi Gabbard Director of National Intelligence
Trump nominated Tulsi Gabbard to be his director of national intelligence. Gabbard served as a Democratic congresswoman in Hawaii from 2011 to 2021 before switching to be an Independent in 2022. She has been critical of the Biden Administration in recent years and in 2024 endorsed Trump’s presidential campaign. She served in the National Guard from 2003 and was deployed in Iraq from 2004 to 2005. Currently, she is a lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve. Earlier this year, Gabbard learned she was on TSA’s terror watch list, which prompted demands from Hawaii Republicans for an explanation. She has not previously worked in the intelligence community.
(Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)
Agriculture Secretary - Brooke Rollins
Confirmed
Feb. 13, 2025 – Senate confirms Brooke Rollins, longtime Trump ally, as agriculture secretary (Source: USA Today, Lean Left bias)
November 24, 2024 – Nominee for agriculture secretary completes Trump cabinet (Source: BBC, Center bias)
Trump nominated Brooke Rollins for Secretary of Agriculture. Rollins, who has a background in farming and agriculture, has been involved in organizations like 4H and Future Farmers of America. Alongside Trump’s attorney general pick Pam Bondi, Rollins has also worked at the America First Policy Institute. Rollins has actively supported Trump’s economic policies in the past, and in 2021 launched a $10 million campaign against President Biden’s economic agenda. Her nomination surprised some observers, as former Sen. Kelly Loeffler was widely expected to be selected, though Loeffler will co-chair Trump’s inaugural committee.
January 23, 2024 – Brooke Rollins says she'll shield farmers from impacts of Trump's tariffs in ag secretary nomination hearing (Source: Texas Tribune, Lean Left bias)
(AP)
Attorney General - Pam Bondi
Confirmed
February 4, 2024 – Pam Bondi Confirmed by Senate as Attorney General (Source: Newsweek, Center bias)
On February 4, the Senate confirmed Trump's Pick for Attorney General, Pam Bondi by a vote of 54-46. One Democrat, Sen. John Fetterman of Pennsylvania, crossed the aisle to vote in favor of Bondi's confirmation.
November 21, 2024 – Who is Trump's New Attorney General Pick, Pam Bondi?
After Matt Gaetz withdrew amid controversy, Trump nominated former Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi as his next pick for Attorney General. Bond played a key role in Trump’s first impeachment defense and has been a vocal critic of investigations into him, accusing prosecutors of bias. During her tenure as Florida AG, she opposed the Affordable Care Act and same-sex marriage while aligning with conservative policies. Her nomination has drawn praise from Senate Republicans, who anticipate a smoother confirmation process than other contentious picks. However, Bondi has faced scrutiny for past ethical issues, including allegations of mishandling a Trump donation during her review of fraud claims against Trump University.
January 15, 2025 – Senate Holds Confirmation Hearings for Bondi, Rubio, Ratcliffe
Bondi fielded questions about her commitment to the Justice department’s independence and her connection to Trump’s attempt to overturn the 2020 election results. When asked if Trump lost that election, she responded, “President Biden is the president of the United States. He was duly sworn in, and he is the president of the United States…There was a peaceful transition of power; President Trump left office and was overwhelmingly elected in 2024.”
(Al Drago/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
Energy Secretary - Chris Wright
Confirmed
Feb. 3, 2025 – Fracking pioneer Chris Wright confirmed as Trump’s energy secretary (Source: New York Post, Lean Right bias)
The Senate confirmed Wright in a 59 to 38 vote.
January 15, 2025 – Trump's energy secretary nominee faces questions over climate posts and LA fires (Source: NPR, Lean Left bias)
November 20, 2024 – Trump's energy picks are refreshingly competent (Source: Reason, Center bias)
November 16, 2024 – Chris Wright Is Trump’s Best Cabinet Pick (Source: National Review Opinion, Right bias)
Trump nominated Chris Wright to lead the Department of Energy. Wright has donated to Trump and is the CEO of Liberty Energy. In addition to overseeing the Energy Department, Wright will serve on the newly created Council of National Energy, led by Doug Burgum, the nominee for Interior secretary. This council will focus on reducing regulations and boosting investment to increase oil and gas production.
(Ethan Miller/Getty Images)
Interior Secretary - Doug Burgum
Confirmed
Jan. 17, 2025 – Burgum's Hearing Begins
Burgum said he “believes that climate change is a global phenomenon” but mentioned problems with overreliance on solar and wind energy.
January 13, 2025 – Doug Burgum Interior secretary confirmation hearing delayed over paperwork (Source: The Hill, Center bias)
November 20, 2024 – Trump's energy picks are refreshingly competent (Source: Reason, Center bias)
November 15, 2024 – Trump Picks Doug Burgum for Interior Secretary and "Energy Czar"
Trump announced he would nominate North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum for Secretary of the Department of the Interior and a newly created role tasked with “unleashing American energy dominance.” Per Trump, Burgum will lead a newly created National Energy Council to bring together all federal agencies involved in regulating energy industries. If confirmed for Interior Secretary, Burgum will be responsible for decisions about how federal lands should be used.
(Steven Ferdman/Getty Images)
Transportation Secretary - Sean Duffy
Confirmed
January 15, 2025 – Transportation pick Duffy soars through confirmation hearing (Source: Roll Call, Center bias)
November 18, 2024 – 5 things to know about Sean Duffy, Trump pick for Transportation secretary (Source: The Hill, Center bias)
Trump nominated Fox Business (Lean Right bias) host and former Rep. Sean Duffy (R-WI) for Secretary of Transportation. Duffy, who previously served as a district attorney and represented Wisconsin’s 7th Congressional District, left Congress in 2019 to focus on family after learning of his child’s heart condition. Known for his fiscal responsibility and support for rural development, Duffy has been a vocal Trump ally, defending policies like the 2017 travel ban on nationals from certain countries. He has been a Fox Business contributor and co-host of The Bottom Line, a role he left upon his nomination.
(ABC 7 WXYZ)
Homeland Security Secretary - Kristi Noem
Confirmed
November 12, 2024 – Trump Taps Kristi Noem for Homeland Security Secretary
Trump announced that South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem would serve as Secretary of Homeland Security. Previously, Noem has previously supported some of Trump’s national security policies, like his travel ban on certain Muslim-majority countries. Her role at DHS will reportedly focus on enforcing immigration laws and securing the border.
January 17, 2025 – Noem's hearing begins
Noem said the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency had “gotten far off mission, using their resources in ways that were never intended” referencing measures to counter misinformation and suggested the agency should be “much more effective, smaller and more nimble.”
January 25, 2025 – Kristi Noem is confirmed by the Senate as Homeland Security Secretary (Source: USA Today, Lean Left bias)
Noem was confirmed 59-34 by the Senate on Saturday, January 25. Noem received "YEA" votes from seven Democrats, including Sen. John Fetterman (D-PA), and Sen. Elise Slotkin (D-MI). She was the fourth of Trump's nominees to be confirmed.
(U.S. Marine Corps image by Staff Sgt. Theodore Bergan)
Defense Secretary - Pete Hegseth
Confirmed
January 25, 2025 – Hegseth Confirmed as US Defense Secretary
The Senate voted to confirm Hegseth late Friday evening. Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY) joined Murkowski and Collins in voting against Hegseth, creating a 50-50 tie which Vice President J.D. Vance broke in favor of the nomination.
January 24, 2025 – Two Republican Senators Say They Won't Support Hegseth (Source: The Hill, Center bias)
Two Republican Senators, Lisa Murkowski of Alaska and Susan Collins of Maine, voted against Hegseth in the procedural vote.
January 21, 2025 – Hegseth Ex-Sister-in-Law Tells Senators He Was ‘Abusive’ to Second Wife (Source: New York Times, Lean Left bias)
Senators reviewed a sworn affidavit from Danielle Diettrich Hegseth, the former wife of Mr. Hegseth’s brother, detailing “erratic and aggressive” behavior by Pete Hegseth that caused his second wife to fear for her safety.
January 14, 2025 – Pete Hegseth Undergoes Senate Confirmation Hearing
Hegseth was among the first Trump nominees to face a committee hearing, fielding over four hours of questions from the Senate Armed Forces Committee. questioned him on his past behavior and opinion on women in combat roles. Hegseth received a warm reception from Republican senators, but Democratic senators asked pointed questions about accusations of drunkenness, sexual assault, and financial mismanagement, as well as his comments on women in combat roles. Hegseth called the accusations a “coordinated smear campaign.” Sen. Ernst prompted Hegseth to commit to keeping combat roles open for women who meet rigorous fitness standards and not hindering sexual assault investigations.
December 9, 2024 – After second meeting with Hegseth, Ernst hints at whether she will or won't support confirmation (Source: Fox News, Right bias)
After meeting with Hegseth twice, Sen. Joni Ernst (R-IA), one of the Republican senator who expressed reluctance to confirm him, made remarks which were widely interpreted as a more open stance toward voting in favor of his nomination. Following the statement, prediction markets saw strong increases in Hegseth's estimated chance of being confirmed.
December 5, 2024 – Pete Hegseth's Opinion on Women in Combat Sparks Debate
December 4, 2024 – Pete Hegseth's Alleged Past Misconduct Jeopardizes DoD Nomination
November 22, 2024 – Public Police Report Details Hegseth Assault Allegation
November 18, 2024 – Pete Hegseth Paid Sexual Assault Accuser Settlement, Denies Assault
A 2017 sexual assault allegation against Hegseth resurfaced shortly after Trump's announcement, sparking a weeks-long media frenzy over several controversial details from his private life and career. Left media covered each beat at high volume, while coverage from the right was more subdued and defensive of Hegseth.
November 12, 2024 – Trump Nominates Pete Hegseth for Defense Secretary
Trump nominated Fox News host and military veteran Pete Hegseth to serve as Secretary of Defense. Hegseth has previously expressed support for Trump's "America First" policies and has been an ardent opponent of "woke" policies within the US military. He also reportedly successfully lobbied Trump to pardon service members accused of war crimes during his first presidency. Many pundits and commentators expressed surprise at the pick.
(Getty Images)
CIA Director - John Ratcliffe
Confirmed
November 12, 2024 – Trump Appoints Former Director of Intelligence John Ratcliffe as CIA Director
Trump announced he would appoint former Director of National Intelligence (DNI) John Ratcliffe to serve as CIA director in his second administration. Ratcliffe, a former Texas congressman, served as DNI in Trump’s first administration from May 26, 2020, to the end of Trump’s term on January 20, 2021. Ratcliffe previously expressed skepticism over investigations that linked Trump to Russia, and also questioned the legitimacy of the Hunter Biden laptop story, which was endorsed by many other intelligence officials.
January 15, 2025 – Senate Holds Confirmation Hearings for Bondi, Rubio, Ratcliffe
Ratcliffe described plans to focus on China as a “top national security threat.” When asked about how he’d avoid the misjudgements of the Intelligence Community in recent years, Ratcliffe responded, “If you have a politically motivated, bureaucratically imposed social justice agenda that takes a part of your attention, that can distract from the core mission of collecting human intelligence that matters and providing it to you in a timely way.”
January 23, 2025 — John Ratcliffe confirmed as next CIA director, becomes second Trump nominee to gain congressional approval (Source: Fox News, Right bias)
The Senate voted 74-25 to confirm Ratcliffe.
(John Bazemore/AP)
Veterans Affairs Secretary - Doug Collins
Confirmed
Feb 4. 2025 - Senate confirms Doug Collins as VA Secretary (Source: Epoch Times, Lean Right bias)
November 14, 2024 – What to know about Doug Collins, Trump’s pick to oversee veterans affairs (Source: Associated Press, Left bias)
Trump nominated former Rep. Doug Collins (R-GA), to serve as Secretary of Veterans Affairs. Collins was a vocal defender during the Democratic-led impeachment hearings and has since worked as legal counsel for Trump, including on claims of 2020 election fraud in Georgia. He is a veteran who served as a Navy chaplain in the 1990s and joined the Air Force Reserve in 2002, later deploying to Iraq in 2008. Trump praised Collins as a committed advocate for service members and military families, citing his experience as a veteran and chaplain.
January 13, 2025 – FBI background check delays VA secretary confirmation hearing (Source: Politico, Lean Left bias)
(Dominic Gwinn/ZUMA Press)
Treasury Secretary - Scott Bessent
Confirmed
January 27, 2025 - Scott Bessent confirmed as Treasury Secretary (Source: Associated Press, Left bias)
On Monday, January 27, Scott Bessent was confirmed to be Trump's Treasury Secretary by the Senate 68-29 with 16 Democrats voting in favor. With the confirmation, several media reported Bessent became the highest-ranking openly-gay U.S. official in history.
January 17, 2025 – Bessent's Hearing Begins
The former hedge fund manager and Trump campaign economic advisor said extending Republicans' 2017 tax cuts “is the single most important economic issue of the day.”
November 29, 2024 – Who is Scott Bessent, Trump's Pick for Treasury Secretary?
Scott Bessent, a former Democratic donor and key player in George Soros’ investment firm, shifted his support to Trump during his second campaign and advocates for tariffs as a trade policy tool. His appointment would make history as the first openly gay Senate-confirmed Treasury Secretary in a Republican administration.
(Leon Neal/Getty Images)
EPA Administrator - Lee Zeldin
Confirmed
January 29, 2025: Lee Zeldin confirmed as EPA head (Source: Fox News, Right bias)
Lee Zeldin was confirmed 56-42
January 17, 2025: Zeldin's Hearing Begins
In his hearing, the New York Republican promised to protect the environment “while also protecting our economy.”
November 11, 2024 – Trump picks former GOP congressman Lee Zeldin to lead the EPA (Source: CNN, Lean Left bias)
Trump nominated former Rep. Lee Zeldin (R-NY) to lead the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Zeldin is expected to prioritize deregulation and promote business growth while maintaining environmental standards. He has expressed skepticism about the severity of climate change but was a member of the Bipartisan Climate Solutions Caucus during his congressional tenure from 2015 to 2023. Zeldin has emphasized restoring U.S. energy dominance and revitalizing industries like auto manufacturing. In 2022, Zeldin ran for governor of New York but was defeated by Democrat Kathy Hochul by six points.
HUD Secretary - Scott Turner
Confirmed
Jan. 17, 2025: Turner's Hearing Begins
The former Texas State Representative said his work would center around “things that my family and I have experienced through the years."
November 22, 2024 – Trump Picks Scott Turner, Little-Known Official From First Term, to Lead HUD (Source: New York Times, Lean Left bias)
Trump nominated former NFL player and congressman Rep. Scott Turner (R-TX) for secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Turner, who chairs the Center for Education Opportunity at the America First Policy Institute, has been involved in initiatives to support underserved communities. During Trump’s first term, he served as executive director of the White House Opportunity and Revitalization Council, focusing on aiding distressed areas nationwide.
Feb. 5, 2025 - Trump-nominated former NFL player clears Senate hurdle, paving way for confirmation (Fox News, Right)
(Evan Vucci/AP)
Secretary of State - Marco Rubio
Confirmed
November 13, 2024 – Trump Taps Marco Rubio for Secretary of State
Trump announced his decision to nominate Sen. Marco Rubio (R-FL) for secretary of state. Rubio previously ran in the Republican presidential primary in 2016 and has been in office as senator since 2011. Rubio’s nomination has received bipartisan support, with lawmakers such as Sen. John Fetterman (D-PA) and Sen. Tim Kaine (D-VA) indicating they would support his confirmation. Some media outlets have highlighted Rubio’s former feud with Trump in the 2016 primary and the hawkish sentiments he’s expressed towards Russia, China, and Iran.
January 15, 2025 – Senate Holds Confirmation Hearings for Bondi, Rubio, Ratcliffe
Rubio responded to questions regarding China and Ukraine, emphasizing his commitment to American safety: “Every program we fund, and every policy we pursue must be justified with the answer to three simple questions: Does it make America safer? Does it make America stronger? Does it make America more prosperous?” Rubio appears to have bipartisan support, with a vote likely on Inauguration Day.
January 20, 2025 – Rubio unanimously confirmed as secretary of State, becoming Trump’s first Cabinet official (Source: The Hill, Center bias)
Hours after Trump's inauguration, Rubio became his first nominee to be confirmed by the Senate in a 99-0 unanimous vote.
(Tom Williams | CQ-Roll Call, Inc. | Getty Images)
Attorney General - Matt Gaetz
Withdrew
November 13, 2024 – Trump Selects Matt Gaetz For US Attorney General; GOP Senators Push Back
Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-FL) represented a district in the Florida pandhandle in the House from 2017 until November, when he resigned from his post to pursue the attorney general position. He has been a staunch supporter of Trump and in October 2023 led a movement to oust Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) that Democrats joined in ratifying in a Republican-led House. In 2020, Gaetz was accused of statutory rape and violating sex trafficking laws, but the Department of Justice decided to not press charges. Some Republican senators appeared to be unsupportive of the pick.
November 19, 2024 – Hacker Accessed Files with Testimony From Matt Gaetz's Sexual Misconduct Case
Media attention quickly turned to an investigation of Gaetz by the House Ethics Committee for sexual misconduct and drug use, among other things, which had technically ended upon his resignation. Democrats pushed for the release of the committee's report, saying it was in the public interest to know the details. Gaetz allies resisted their efforts, citing a supposed precedent against releasing details from investigations into former members who are no longer in the House.
November 20, 2024 – House Ethics Committee Deadlocks on Releasing Gaetz Report
November 21, 2024 – Gaetz Withdraws as Attorney General Nominee
The willingness of some Republicans to entertain releasing details of the House Ethics Committee investigation eventually sank Gaetz's nomination. A day after the Republican-led House Ethics Committee deadlocked on a vote to publicly release the report from its investigation, Gaetz withdrew from consideration for Attorney General. Trump announced Pam Bondi as his replacement nominee.
December 12, 2024 – Matt Gaetz to Host Primetime Show on OAN
Gaetz revealed he would host a show on One America News (Right bias), slated to premiere in January 2025.
(via Hindustan Times)
DOGE (Department of Government Efficiency) - Elon Musk, Vivek Ramaswamy
No confirmation needed
November 12, 2024 – Trump Recruits Musk and Ramaswamy to Lead Government Efficiency Advisory Group
Trump announced X CEO Elon Musk and former Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy will lead a new advisory group called the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). DOGE, in tandem with the White House Office of Management and Budget, will aim to reign in excessive government regulations and spending and restructure federal agencies by July 4, 2026. Musk and Ramaswamy are both prominent tech and business entrepreneurs who have established themselves as ardent backers of Trump. Trump said the group “will provide advice and guidance from outside of Government” to “create an entrepreneurial approach to Government never seen before.”
November 26, 2024 – ‘DOGE’ tweets illustrate an almost impossible budget-cutting agenda (Source: Washington Post Fact Check, Lean Left bias)
December 29, 2024 – Musk, Ramaswamy Divide Trump Base Over H1-B Visa Program; Trump Supports Them
January 8, 2024 – Elon Musk's DOGE says it's hiring. Here are the jobs it wants to fill. (Source: CBS News, Lean Left bias)
January 10, 2025 – Musk Striving For $2T Budget Cut, Conceding $1T as More Realistic
January 20, 2025 – Vivek Ramaswamy Exits DOGE, Plans Run for OH Governor
(Anna Moneymaker/Pool via Getty Images)
Homeland Security Adviser - Stephen Miller
No confirmation needed
November 11, 2024 – Trump Names Stephen Miller to Be Deputy Chief of Policy, Vance Confirms (Source: Epoch Times, Lean Right bias)
Trump announced Stephen Miller, a senior adviser during Trump’s first term, would return as deputy chief of staff for policy and homeland security adviser. Miller was a polarizing figure in Trump's first administration; as many left and lean-left outlets put it, he was the "architect" of a 2017 ban on travel to the U.S. from several Muslim-majority countries and the administration's polic yof separating families at the border, drawing accusations of inhumane cruelty from the left.
December 8, 2024 – Stephen Miller outlines how Trump administration would prioritize mass deportations (Source: Axios, Lean Left bias)
December 30, 2024 – Elon Musk is on a collision course with Stephen Miller (Source: Vox, Left bias)
(Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)
White House Chief of Staff - Susie Wiles
No confirmation needed
November 6, 2024 – Trump Names Susie Wiles Chief of Staff
Trump named his campaign manager, Susie Wiles, the White House Chief of Staff. Nicknamed "the ice maiden," Wiles started working in politics around the time of President Ronald Reagan's campaign and became his scheduler when he won the White House. She has also worked on the campaigns of Sen. Rick Scott (R-FL) in 2010 and Gov. Ron DeSantis (R-FL) in 2018. In 2015, she served as the co-chair of Trump's Florida campaign.
(Reuters)
Border Czar - Tom Homan
No confirmation needed
November 11, 2024 – Trump Names Former ICE Director Tom Homan as ‘Border Czar’
Trump announced his decision to appoint Tom Homan, former U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Director under Trump’s previous administration, as "border czar." Homan is expected to lead the effort to implement Trump’s plans to deport unauthorized migrants while also playing a major role in securing the southern and northern borders. He previously oversaw the controversial family separation policy, a part of the zero-tolerance act, and has reportedly contributed to Project 2025.
(AP)
National Security Adviser - Mike Waltz
No confirmation needed
November 11, 2024 – Trump Taps Mike Waltz for National Security Adviser
Rep. Mike Waltz (R-FL) is a former Green Beret and has represented Florida in Congress since 2019. Waltz has advocated for Europe to be responsible in the defense of Ukraine, similar to sentiments Trump has expressed, but has also expressed a desire to support Ukraine with more weaponry. Waltz has also expressed a hardline stance towards China. His new position as national security adviser, which does not require Senate confirmation, will create a vacancy in the closely divided House.
(Oded Balilty/The Associated Press)
Ambassador to Israel - Mike Huckabee
Hearing underway
March 25, 2025 – Senate confirmation hearings held for former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee’s Israel ambassadorship (Source: KARK, Center bias)
November 12, 2024 – Mike Huckabee Named as Trump's Ambassador to Israel (Source: Breitbart, Right bias)
Trump nominated former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee to serve as the U.S. ambassador to Israel. Huckabee is a staunch supporter of Israel and has advocated for a strong stance against Hamas and Hezbollah. Huckabee served as governor from 1996 to 2007 and is the father of Sarah Huckabee Sanders, who served as Trump’s White House press secretary. He has no prior diplomatic experience and will require Senate confirmation to become the ambassador.
(@dougmillsnyt on X)
Special Envoy to the Middle East - Steve Witkoff
No confirmation needed
November 12, 2024 – Trump's pick for Middle East envoy a 'prominent' fundraiser (Source: Raw Story, Left bias)
Trump announced that real estate executive Steven Witkoff would serve as his special envoy to the Middle East. Witkoff is also set to co-chair Trump’s inaugural committee alongside former Senator Kelly Loeffler (R-IL). Trump and reportedly have collaborated on projects, including a cryptocurrency initiative involving their sons, and Witkoff testified at Trump’s New York civil trial as an expert witness.
(@Law360 on X)
White House General Counsel - William McGinley
No confirmation needed
November 12, 2024 – Trump taps former aide to work on Musk-led government efficiency plan (Source: Reuters, Center bias)
Trump announced that William McGinley will serve as White House general counsel in his second term. McGinley previously served in the first Trump administration as White House Cabinet secretary and also general counsel for the National Republican Senatorial Committee. Trump said McGinley will support the "America First" agenda and address issues like election integrity and legal reform.
Deputy Chiefs of Staff - Multiple
No confirmation needed
November 13, 2024 – James Blair, Taylor Budowich continue Florida influx into Donald Trump's senior staff (Source: Florida Politics, Center bias)
Trump announced Dan Scavino, James Blair, and Taylor Budowich would serve in senior staff roles at the White House. Dan Scavino served as a senior aide during Trump’s first term and will serve as an assistant and deputy chief of staff. James Blair was the Trump campaign’s political director and will become deputy chief of staff for legislative, political, and public affairs. Taylor Budowich formerly headed Trump’s super PAC, MAGA Inc., and will serve as deputy chief of staff for communications and personnel.
(KRCG)
Solicitor General - Dean John Sauer
No confirmation needed
November 14, 2024 – Trump names Dean John Sauer as US solicitor general (Source: Fox News, Right bias)
Trump announced that Dean John Sauer would be the Solicitor General in his administration. Sauer has previously served as a clerk for Justice Antonin Scalia and as Missouri’s Solicitor General for six years. Sauer was the lead counsel for Trump in the Supreme Court case Trump v. United States, which resulted in a landmark ruling on presidential immunity.
Deputy Attorney General - Todd Blanche
No confirmation needed
Novemeber 14, 2024 – Donald Trump picks his criminal lawyer, Todd Blanche, as deputy attorney general (Source: USA Today, Lean Left bias)
Trump announced that Todd Blanche, one of his personal criminal defense attorneys, would serve as deputy attorney general in his administration. Blancheworked as a prosecutor in the Southern District of New York and joined Trump’s defense team in 2023 when the former president faced his first criminal indictment in New York. Trump said Blanche will lead efforts to reform the Justice Department.
(Seth Wenig/AP)
White House Communications Director - Steven Cheung
No confirmation needed
November 15, 2024 – Who Is Steven Cheung? What To Know About Trump’s Incoming Communications Director (Source: Forbes, Center bias)
Trump nominated Steven Cheung as the White House communications director for his second term, where he will serve as assistant to the president and head of communications. Cheung, who previously served as director of strategic response during Trump’s first term, also handled communications during the 2024 campaign. Cheung has worked in communications for several politicians, including former California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and former Republican presidential candidate John McCain. He also worked as communications and public affairs director at the UFC.
(via Newsmax)
White House Press Secretary - Karoline Leavitt
No confirmation needed
November 15, 2024 – Karoline Leavitt set to take reins as youngest ever White House press secretary (Source: The Hill, Center bias)
Donald Trump nominated Karoline Leavitt, his 2024 campaign spokesperson, for White House press secretary in his upcoming administration. Leavitt, 27, previously served as an assistant press secretary during Trump's first term and worked as a top aide to Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-NY).
White House Staff Secretary - Will Scharf
No confirmation needed
November 16, 2024 – Trump taps personal lawyer Will Scharf for White House staff secretary (Source: Politico, Lean Left bias)
Trump announced that Will Scharf will serve as White House staff secretary. Scharf has served as a personal attorney for Trump, representing Trump in legal battles like the presidential immunity case before the Supreme Court. A former federal prosecutor and policy director for Missouri’s governor, Scharf previously worked with Leonard Leo's CRC Advisors and helped confirm Trump’s Supreme Court picks, Brett Kavanaugh and Amy Coney Barrett.
(Reuters)
FCC Chair - Brendan Carr
No confirmation needed
November 17, 2024 – Trump Picks Brendan Carr to Chair FCC
Trump announced he would appoint Brendan Carr as Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chair. Carr is currently the senior Republican on the five-member commission and was appointed by Trump. He has been an outspoken critic of “big tech” and described by Trump as a “warrior for free speech.” On November 3, Carr criticized NBC for featuring Vice President Kamala Harris on Saturday Night Live so close to the election without offering Trump an appearance, claiming they violated the FCC’s equal time rule.
(Dustin Franz/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
Medicare & Medicaid Administrator - Dr. Mehmet Oz
Nominated
March 25, 2025 – Oz moves closer to confirmation as Medicare, Medicaid chief (Source: The Hill, Center)
November 19, 2024 – Trump Taps Dr. Oz to Oversee Medicare, Medicaid
Trump announced he would nominate Dr. Mehmet Oz to lead the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). Trump said Oz will "work closely" with Robert F. Kennedy Jr., whom he intends to nominate for the Department of Health and Human Services. Oz is a former cardiothoracic surgeon who built a television career as a health expert, and in 2022 ran for the U.S. Senate in Pennsylvania, but was defeated by Democrat John Fetterman.
(via Newsmax)
NATO Ambassador - Matthew Whitaker
Hearing underway
November 20, 2024 – Matthew Whitaker - hot tub salesman and scam artist - for Ambassador to NATO (Source: Daily Kos, Left bias)
Trump nominated former acting Attorney General Matthew Whitaker as ambassador to NATO. Early reactions to Whitaker’s nomination were split, with Republicans largely supportive and Democrats raising concerns about his foreign policy experience and DOJ tenure. In the previous Trump administration, he faced criticism for his handling of the Mueller investigation.
(Joshua Roberts/Reuters)
Counterterrorism Senior Director - Sebastian Gorka
No confirmation needed
November 24, 2024 – Former Trump Adviser Sebastian Gorka Named as Senior Director for Counterterrorism (Source: National Review, Lean Right bias)
Trump named Sebastian Gorka as deputy assistant to the president and senior director for counterterrorism. Gorka, a British-Hungarian-American with over 30 years of national security experience, served in Trump’s first administration advising on counterterrorism. Known for his media presence and support of Trump, Gorka has hosted programs on Salem Radio Network and Newsmax (Right bias) and launched the America First podcast.
(Elijah Nouvelage/Getty Images)
Small Business Administrator - Kelly Loeffler
Confirmed
March 4, 2025 – Kelly Loeffler to Newsmax: Undoing 'Tragic' Biden Policies (Source: Newsmax, Right bias)
December 4, 2024 – Trump picks ex-Senator Loeffler to head the Small Business Administration (Source: Reuters, Center bias)
Trump announced plans to nominate former Senator Kelly Loeffler (R-GA) for administrator of the Small Business Administration (SBA). Trump highlighted Loeffler’s business and political experience, emphasizing her commitment to reducing bureaucracy and fostering innovation for small businesses. He also noted her focus on improving accountability at the SBA by addressing waste, fraud, and regulatory overreach. Loeffler previously was considered for the role of Secretary of Agriculture and has been co-chairing Trump’s inaugural committee alongside Steve Witkoff.
Trump announced plans to nominate businessman John Phelan as the next Secretary of the Navy, praising him as a strong leader aligned with his "America First" vision. Phelan, founder of Rugger Management LLC and former managing partner of MSD Capital, brings extensive business experience but has not served in the military. A significant donor to Trump’s campaign and GOP-aligned committees, Phelan contributed over $834,000 to Trump 47 and hosted a high-profile fundraiser in Colorado.
(Greg Nash)
Trade and Manufacturing Counselor - Peter Navarro
No confirmation needed
December 4, 2024 – Trump taps ex-aide Peter Navarro for senior counselor on trade and manufacturing (Source: NewsNation, Center bias)
Trump appointed his former aide Peter Navarro as Senior Counselor for Trade and Manufacturing, emphasizing his loyalty and effectiveness in advancing Trump's trade policies during his first term. Navarro, who recently served a prison sentence for contempt of Congress related to the Jan. 6 investigation, received strong Republican support upon his release and endorsement of Trump’s reelection bid.
(Brendan Hoffman/Getty Images)
SEC Chair - Paul Atkins
Nominated
December 4, 2024 – Trump picks crypto backer Paul Atkins as new Securities and Exchange Commission chair (Source: NPR, Lean Left bias)
Trump nominated former SEC Commissioner Paul Atkins to replace Gary Gensler as chair, signaling a shift toward a more crypto-friendly regulatory approach. The crypto industry welcomed the nomination, with leaders citing Atkins’ understanding of the digital asset ecosystem and his potential to foster U.S. innovation. Atkins’ selection aligns with Trump’s campaign pledge to make the U.S. a global crypto leader, a stark contrast to Gensler’s stricter regulatory stance.
(SpaceX)
NASA Administrator - Jared Isaacman
Nominated
December 4, 2024 – Billionaire SpaceX backer Jared Isaacman nominated to head NASA (Source: UPI, Center bias)
Trump announced pilot and entrepreneur Jared Isaacman as his pick to lead NASA. Isaacman was the founder and CEO of payment company Shift4 and served as the commander of SpaceX’s Elon Musk for the first private spacewalk in 2021. Isaacman also co-founded Draken International, a defense contractor specializing in private fighter jets.
(Steve Jennings/Getty Images)
Crypto Czar - David Sacks
No confirmation needed
December 5, 2024 – Trump names David Sacks AI czar (Source: Axios, Lean Left bias)
Trump named venture capitalist David Sacks as the White House's first AI and cryptocurrency czar. Sacks, a former PayPal executive and ally of Elon Musk, will reportedly oversee policy development in these technologies, aiming to position the U.S. as a global leader while addressing Big Tech bias and online free speech concerns.