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Washington, D.C.— President-elect Donald Trump has revealed three major picks for his new administration. He places outspoken conservative Rep. Matt Gaetz as Attorney General, foreign policy hawk Sen. Marco Rubio as Secretary of State, and former Democrat-turned-Republican Tulsi Gabbard as Director of National Intelligence.
Gaetz as Attorney General: Combatting “Weaponized Government”
In a move aimed at reshaping the Justice Department, Trump has selected Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-FL) as his nominee for attorney general. Gaetz, a staunch Trump ally and vocal critic of government overreach, has vowed to dismantle what he describes as “weaponized government” agencies and restore public confidence in the Department of Justice (DOJ).
“It will be an honor to serve as President Trump’s Attorney General,” Gaetz wrote on X. Known for his combative stance on Capitol Hill, Gaetz has frequently criticized the DOJ and FBI. He is advocating for potential overhauls or even the abolishment of agencies he claims have overstepped their bounds.
During his time in Congress, he served on the House Select Subcommittee on the Weaponization of the Federal Government and often clashed with current DOJ leadership. His nomination has been praised by conservatives but may face resistance in the Senate, where his confirmation could hinge on a slim margin.
Rubio as Secretary of State: Taking on China
Trump has also nominated Sen. Marco Rubio (R-FL) to lead the Department of State. A seasoned member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and an advocate for tougher stances on China.
Rubio is poised to lead the U.S. with a strong, assertive approach on the international stage. Known for his unrelenting stance on human rights abuses and trade imbalances with China. Rubio expressed gratitude for Trump’s nomination, pledging to prioritize “peace through strength.”
Rubio’s role as Secretary of State will place him at the forefront of America’s interactions with key global players like China and Russia, as well as the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East.
A fierce critic of China’s economic influence and alleged human rights violations, Rubio has also warned against U.S. reliance on Chinese-manufactured goods, a concern that intensified during the COVID-19 pandemic. If confirmed, Rubio will become the first Latino Secretary of State, representing a historic appointment in Trump’s second-term administration.
Gabbard as Director of National Intelligence: A Unique Perspective on National Security
In a surprise move, Trump has nominated former Rep. Tulsi Gabbard as the next Director of National Intelligence (DNI), overseeing 17 U.S. intelligence agencies.
Gabbard, a former Democratic vice-chair turned Republican supporter, brings a unique perspective to the role, with a history of opposing U.S. military intervention abroad and advocating for peace-driven foreign policy.
Though Gabbard’s nomination has drawn criticism from some quarters, her supporters argue that she brings a much-needed perspective on limiting America’s military involvements.
Gabbard has previously taken stances opposing U.S. aid to Ukraine, which could spark debates in the Senate over her qualifications. Gabbard’s recent decision to endorse Trump, citing a Republican shift towards “peace” over “endless war,” reflects her alignment with Trump’s America First policy framework.
A Cabinet Aligned with “America First”
With Gaetz, Rubio, and Gabbard, Trump’s selections embody his “America First” vision. He wants to focus on restoring trust in government, strengthening U.S. sovereignty, and promoting peace through a pragmatic approach to foreign policy.
Gaetz’s and Gabbard’s controversial views on reform and restraint, combined with Rubio’s assertive stance on national security, set the stage for a potentially transformative cabinet, if confirmed.
The Senate confirmation process will be critical, as some of Trump’s picks may face tough questions from both sides of the aisle.