1 week ago
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US President-elect Donald Trump has started building his administrative team with appointments of several advisers and political associates to various positions, including the role of White House chief of staff.
His initial appointments have focused on crucial policy areas, particularly immigration, which featured prominently in his campaign messaging for 2024.
The anticipated administration structure is likely to differ from his previous term. In an October interview, he acknowledged that selecting "bad, disloyal people" was his primary error during his first tenure.
The following list details his current selections:
Chief of staff: Susie Wiles
Susie Wiles, aged 67, served as the principal adviser and effective campaign manager for Trump's 2024 presidential bid.
Her political roots are deeply embedded in Florida's political landscape. Initially, she contributed to Ron DeSantis's successful gubernatorial campaign. Later, she played an instrumental role in Trump's victory over DeSantis during the 2024 Republican primary.
As Trump's first significant appointment following his president-elect status, Wiles's selection could prove crucial for the incoming administration, given her established rapport with him. Her leadership of Trump's most structured presidential campaign among his three attempts notably earned his confidence.
She distinguished herself by successfully steering Trump's direction through a unique approach. Rather than challenging his instincts directly, she gained his respect by demonstrating positive outcomes when he followed her strategic guidance.
National security adviser: Mike Waltz
Mike Waltz, a retired Army National Guard officer, has been selected as national security adviser. The three-term Florida congressman brings experience from multiple Afghanistan tours and previous Pentagon service. He will address various international challenges, including Ukraine's armament needs, Russia-North Korea relations, Middle Eastern conflicts, and Israel's situation with Hamas and Hezbollah.
Border czar: Tom Homan
Tom Homan, 62, has been designated as 'border czar'. The former US Immigration and Customs Enforcement leader under Trump's first administration will oversee an extensive deportation programme. Despite promising humane implementation, his support for previous strict border policies has drawn criticism from Democrats.
United Nations ambassador: Elise Stefanik
Elise Stefanik, appointed as United Nations ambassador, has consistently supported Trump since his first impeachment. The 40-year-old New York representative, currently third-ranking in House leadership, gained prominence through her questioning of university presidents regarding campus antisemitism.
Deputy chief of staff for policy: Stephen Miller
Stephen Miller, aged 39, assumes the role of deputy chief of staff for policy. The former senior adviser and immigration hardliner currently leads America First Legal, challenging various institutions on free speech and national security matters.
Environmental Protection Agency: Lee Zeldin
Lee Zeldin, aged 44, has been nominated to lead the Environmental Protection Agency. The former New York representative, whilst lacking environmental expertise, has pledged to promote American energy independence whilst maintaining environmental standards.
