Here are the most talked-about candidates for top posts in Trump’s administration

to the stage during a campaign rally in Raleigh, North Carolina, on November 4, 2024. Leavitt is considered a top contender for the role of press secretary in Trump’s second term.

As President-elect Donald Trump gears up to take office for his second term, the selection of his Cabinet members is crucial to ensuring the success of his administration’s agenda. With several high-profile candidates rumored for each position, the following individuals are some of the most talked-about contenders for the top posts:

For the role of Secretary of State, Sen. Marco Rubio of Florida is a leading contender. With his experience as vice chairman of the Select Committee on Intelligence and senior member of the Committee on Foreign Relations, Rubio is well-equipped to handle the nation’s foreign policy challenges. Other potential picks for the role include Sen. Bill Hagerty, former national security advisor Robert O’Brien, and former ambassador to Germany Richard Grenell.

In the running for Secretary of Defense is Rep. Mike Waltz, a combat-decorated Green Beret from Florida. Waltz’s background in defense policy and national security makes him a strong candidate for the position. Former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is also being considered for a return to the role.

Chad Wolf, former acting secretary of Homeland Security, and Tom Homan, former acting director of ICE, are contenders for the role of Secretary of Homeland Security. Both bring extensive experience in immigration and border security to the table.

For the position of Attorney General, Sen. Mike Lee of Utah and former acting AG Matt Whitiker are top contenders. Both have a strong background in law and have shown support for President Trump’s policies.

North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum is a potential pick for Secretary of Energy, while former Energy Secretary Dan Brouillette could also return to the role. For Secretary of the Interior, former Secretary David Bernhardt and Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy are rumored contenders.

President Trump has expressed his intention to close the Department of Education, but former Secretary Betsy DeVos could potentially return to the role. For the Department of the Treasury, Scott Bessent, John Paulson, Jay Clayton, and Robert Lighthizer are all being considered.

Susie Wiles, a seasoned political strategist, is a top contender for Chief of Staff, while House GOP Conference Chairwoman Elise Stefanik is angling for the role of Ambassador to the United Nations. Karoline Leavitt, who served as national press secretary for Trump’s 2024 campaign, is a leading candidate for the role of Press Secretary.

As President-elect Trump finalizes his Cabinet selections, the country awaits to see who will join his team and help shape the direction of his administration over the next four years. With a mix of seasoned politicians, experienced officials, and new faces, Trump’s Cabinet is poised to lead the country forward in the years to come.