Donald Trump is set to return to the White House in January, making history as the only U.S. President, alongside Grover Cleveland, to win two non-consecutive terms. With Inauguration Day scheduled for January 20, Trump’s focus is now shifting toward building a cabinet that could reflect some of his most prominent supporters. From tech giants to family members, here’s a look at the individuals reportedly being considered for major roles in Trump’s anticipated second administration.
Elon Musk as a potential cabinet pick
Elon Musk, CEO of SpaceX and Tesla, emerged as one of Trump’s most influential backers during the recent election, contributing nearly $119 million to support campaign efforts in key battleground states. Sources say that Musk could be selected to lead a newly proposed “Department of Government Efficiency” or “DOGE,” a name inspired by the Dogecoin cryptocurrency, which would be tasked with conducting comprehensive audits of federal expenditures and operations. In a September rally, Trump underscored the importance of such an agency, describing it as “a complete financial and performance audit of the entire federal government.”
Robert F. Kennedy Jr.: Health policy frontrunner
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., originally an Independent Presidential candidate before stepping aside, may also secure a prominent position in Trump’s administration, particularly in the health policy arena. Kennedy, a vocal vaccine skeptic, has raised public awareness around health issues and has been critical of water fluoridation. He recently hinted on social media about a possible Inauguration Day announcement, saying “The Trump White House will advise all U.S. water systems to remove fluoride from public water.” Kennedy’s statements have sparked controversy and prompted ongoing debate among health experts.
Family dynamics: Donald Trump Jr., Eric Trump, and Lara Trump
While Ivanka Trump and her husband Jared Kushner both served in the first Trump administration, Ivanka has stated she has no plans to return, calling the experience “too painful for the family.” However, Trump’s two sons, Donald Trump Jr. and Eric, both played active roles on the campaign trail, leading to speculation that they could take up posts in the new administration.
Eric’s wife, Lara Trump, currently serves as Co-Chair of the Republican National Committee, and her background in political strategy could pave the way for a formal role in her father-in-law’s government.
Defense and national security: Pompeo, Waltz, and Cotton
Mike Pompeo, Trump’s former Secretary of State and CIA Director, is widely viewed as a top contender for the role of Defense Secretary or another position within National Security. Florida Congressman Mike Waltz, a military veteran, and Arkansas Senator Tom Cotton, a Harvard-educated Army officer, are also seen as likely candidates for defense roles.
Others expected to be in Trump’s inner circle
Richard Grenell, a close ally of Trump, may take on a role as National Security Adviser. Known for his direct engagement with foreign leaders, Grenell has previously suggested controversial strategies, including the idea of an autonomous zone in eastern Ukraine as a means to end the Ukraine conflict, though Kyiv rejected the proposal.
In economic roles, former National Economic Council Director Larry Kudlow is reportedly under consideration for Treasury Secretary. Billionaire hedge fund manager and Trump donor John Paulson is also rumored to be a potential pick for this role. Florida Senator Marco Rubio, a former 2016 presidential rival and vice presidential contender, could emerge as Trump’s next pick for Secretary of State.
The final decisions will be revealed in the coming weeks, with speculation mounting over the direction Trump’s leadership team will take as he returns to office.
