 "Donald Trump Jr speaks during a rally in Scottsdale, Arizona, US, November 2, 2024. File Image/Reuters")
As Donald Trump gears up for his second term as president of the United States, one figure has emerged as a cornerstone in shaping his administration — Donald Trump Jr.
Once primarily focused on the family business, the eldest Trump son has taken on an outsized role in influencing his father’s decisions.
With a keen eye for loyalty and a vision for an anti-establishment government, Don Jr has become instrumental in defining the makeup of what many are calling the most controversial Cabinet in modern US history.
In Trump’s first administration, Ivanka Trump and her husband, Jared Kushner, were pivotal in shaping White House policy, while Don Jr and Eric Trump managed the family’s business interests.
However, following Trump’s loss to Joe Biden in 2020 and the legal turmoil that ensued , Ivanka and Jared stepped back from politics. Their reduced involvement created a vacuum, now filled by Don Jr, who has become the most influential family adviser during the current transition.
Sources close to the president-elect describe Don Jr as a driving force behind key decisions, from selecting Cabinet members to blocking potential appointees. He has been credited with promoting inexperienced loyalists over more traditional candidates. One source told Reuters that Don Jr has his father’s ear in a way no one else in the family does right now.
How Don Jr has shaped his father’s Cabinet
A hallmark of Donald Trump Jr’s strategy is his focus on candidates who demonstrate unwavering loyalty to his father and embrace the principles of “America First.”
While this approach energises Trump’s base, it has also drawn criticism for sidelining more qualified individuals in favour of political loyalists.
Two of the most controversial nominations are:
Robert F Kennedy Jr for secretary of health and human services: Known for his environmental activism and vaccine scepticism , Kennedy’s nomination has sparked bipartisan concern due to his history of spreading misinformation.
Tulsi Gabbard as director of national intelligence: The former Democratic congresswoman has faced scrutiny over her perceived pro-Russian statements and lack of intelligence experience.
Both nominees are expected to face fierce Senate confirmation battles.
Don Jr also played a key role in selecting JD Vance as his father’s running mate, a decision that reflects his focus on figures who resonate with Trump’s populist base. Vance, known for his anti-corporate rhetoric and opposition to US aid to Ukraine, has been a polarising figure.
Despite reservations among some donors and political allies, Trump ultimately endorsed the choice, bolstering Don Jr’s influence.
Key appointments under the spotlight
The administration’s roster features a mix of loyalists, seasoned conservatives, and controversial figures. Highlights include:
Marco Rubio, secretary of state: Rubio’s hawkish foreign policy positions have stirred debate, particularly among Trump’s isolationist-leaning supporters.
Pete Hegseth, secretary of defence: The Fox News commentator has faced allegations of sexual misconduct and criticism for his views on women in combat roles.
Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy, department of government efficiency: Tasked with reducing federal bureaucracy, this newly created department underscores Trump’s push to reshape government operations.
Susie Wiles, chief of staff: Wiles’ disciplined approach has earned praise, with insiders calling her the backbone of Trump’s transition process.
Other notable picks include Brooke Rollins as agriculture secretary, Pam Bondi as attorney general, and Scott Bessent as treasury secretary. While these appointments align with Trump’s agenda, some have questioned the lack of diversity and representation in the lineup.
Challenges amidst the transition process
Unlike past transitions, Trump’s team has opted out of federal transition funding under the Presidential Transition Act, raising concerns about transparency. Instead, the process is being funded privately, with donor identities kept confidential.
Amid this unconventional approach, Jared Kushner has taken on a limited advisory role, briefing Steve Witkoff on Middle Eastern policy. Kushner’s efforts aim to expand the Abraham Accords , which normalised relations between Israel and several Arab nations.
Susie Wiles, who managed Trump’s campaign, has been credited with maintaining discipline within the transition team. A source close to the process told Reuters, “Stuff is really buttoned down. He may not need the family this time like he used to.”
The polarising nature of Trump’s appointments reflects broader divisions in American politics. Republican lawmakers have rallied behind some controversial picks, including Defence Secretary nominee Pete Hegseth, while Democrats have voiced strong opposition.
Senator Tammy Duckworth, a decorated veteran, called Hegseth “unqualified and dangerous,” highlighting the potential challenges the administration faces in achieving Senate confirmations.
With inputs from agencies