Washington: US President Donald Trump has drawn attention for his distinctive leadership style and controversial decisions. Beginning his new term, Trump has been assembling a Cabinet and advisory team made up of close associates, high-profile figures, and loyal allies, sparking both interest and debate. Some of them have faced or are facing a rocky road to Senate confirmation.
According to Anadolu Agency, Trump’s selections reflect his preference for individuals he shares personal or ideological ties with, including business associates, political allies, and even family members. Among the key figures is Republican Senator Marco Rubio, known for his hawkish stance on Iran and China and strong pro-Israel views, who took office as Secretary of State on January 21. Rubio previously served as vice chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee and a senior member of the Foreign Relations Committee, focusing on foreign policy and intelligence.
In an unconventional move, Trump appointed billionaire Elon Musk, own
er of X, Tesla, and SpaceX, alongside entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy to lead a new initiative called the Department of Government Efficiency. Their mission was to reduce bureaucracy and cut wasteful spending, with a target of addressing $6.5 trillion in annual government waste and fraud. However, Ramaswamy recently stepped down, citing his potential gubernatorial run in Ohio.
Environmental lawyer Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was nominated to lead the Department of Health and Human Services, despite concerns over his controversial views on vaccines. Kennedy has received support for his advocacy against processed foods and additives. Meanwhile, cardiothoracic surgeon Dr. Mehmet Oz was tapped to head the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, though he faces criticism for promoting unproven treatments.
South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem was appointed to lead the Department of Homeland Security, a vital role overseeing border security and emergency response. Noem has stirred controversy with past claims and personal
revelations. Controversial former soldier and TV commentator Pete Hegseth narrowly won a Senate vote to become Secretary of Defense, despite allegations of misconduct clouding his appointment.
Billionaire investor Scott Bessent was nominated to oversee the Treasury Department, leveraging his extensive experience in finance. Pam Bondi, former Florida Attorney General, was nominated for the position of Attorney General, bringing her staunch support of Trump’s policies to the forefront.
Businessman Howard Lutnick was chosen as Commerce Secretary, expected to shape the administration’s tariff and trade agenda. Florida Congressman Mike Waltz was appointed as National Security Adviser, likely to play a pivotal role in addressing foreign policy challenges, including US-China relations.
Real estate mogul Steve Witkoff was appointed Special Envoy to the Middle East, while 26-year-old Karoline Leavitt made history as the youngest White House Press Secretary. Susie Wiles broke barriers as the first woman appointed as
White House Chief of Staff, and longtime adviser Stephen Miller was named Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy.
Finally, Lebanese-American businessman Massad Boulos was appointed as an advisor on Arab and Middle East affairs, reflecting Trump’s strategic outreach to Arab American and Muslim voters.