Key takeaways
- The US Cabinet includes the vice president and heads of 15 executive departments. The president chairs the meetings but isn’t formally a member.
- Notable members in Trump’s second term include Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Pete Hegseth as secretary of defense. Each appointee will be crucial in policy-making, diplomacy and national security.
- The administration emphasizes economic growth, national security and an “America First” foreign policy. Appointments in finance, defense and homeland security reflect these priorities.
- Several nominations, including Robert F Kennedy Jr. in health and Linda McMahon in education, indicate shifts in policy direction, emphasizing healthcare reform and school choice.
As US President Donald Trump begins his second term, attention turns to the individuals he has chosen to help run his administration. In the weeks following the election, Trump swiftly announced his picks for key Cabinet and administrative posts in his bid to set the tone for the next four years. These selections, subject to Senate confirmation, include traditional Cabinet roles and positions elevated to Cabinet-level status. There have been instances when the Senate has rejected nominations.
Cabinet-level positions refer to primarily statutory offices that were elevated. For instance, the director of the Central Intelligence Agency is a statutory office that was elevated to Cabinet-level status by the Trump administration in February 2017. The CIA director reports to the Director of National Intelligence, though they both participate in the Cabinet meetings.
The tradition of the Cabinet dates back to the beginnings of the presidency. Established in Article II, Section 2, of the Constitution, the Cabinet’s role is to advise the president on any subject he may require relating to the duties of each member’s respective office.
What constitutes the Cabinet under Trump 2.0
The Cabinet includes the vice president and the heads of 15 executive departments: the secretaries of Agriculture, Commerce, Defense, Education, Energy, Health and Human Services, Homeland Security, Housing and Urban Development, Interior, Labor, State, Transportation, Treasury and Veterans Affairs, as well as the attorney general. There are also 10 Cabinet-level officials. The president chairs the Cabinet meetings but isn’t a formal member of this group.
All except the president and vice president in the Cabinet require Senate confirmation. The vice president is indirectly elected at the same time as the president to a four-year term of office through the electoral college. The vice president has no authority over the Cabinet, and all secretaries and officials report directly to the president.
This article explores the Cabinet officials Trump has chosen and their roles and responsibilities. The Senate has confirmed some nominees, while some others await decisions. This information is accurate as of Jan. 31, and will be updated pending the confirmation of nominees.
Below are the members of the Cabinet, with some still pending confirmation:
1. Vice President: James David (JD) Vance
As the vice president, JD Vance holds major domestic and international responsibilities. Constitutionally, he presides over the Senate and casts tie-breaking votes when needed, making him a key player in legislative proceedings. He also serves as an adviser to the president, offering insights into political decisions.
Vance’s mandate includes leading major administration initiatives, which might involve engaging with communities nationwide. The regular job of the vice president is to assist the president in conveying the administration’s position on issues such as national security, economic growth and public health. Moreover, Vance routinely represents the US on diplomatic missions to promote alliances and foster foreign ties.
As vice president, Vance fosters practical cooperation across executive departments to support the implementation of the president’s agenda. He is expected to provide crucial leadership in the president’s absence.
Did you know? Born Aug. 2, 1984, Vance is the third-youngest person to serve as vice president. Vance is also the first Marine Corps veteran to serve as vice president.
2. Secretary of State: Marco Rubio (confirmed)
The Senate approved the nomination of Marco Rubio on Jan. 20 as secretary of state. Rubio is the first Latino to serve in the role.
As secretary of state, Rubio is pivotal in shaping and implementing US foreign policy. His principal responsibilities include representing the US in diplomatic meetings and conferences, negotiating international treaties and cultivating partnerships with allies worldwide. He is expected to implement a policy that enables the US to maintain its predominant position in world affairs.
Rubio oversees the Department of State, which manages US embassies, consulates and foreign missions around the globe. He addresses critical topics like international commerce, security and humanitarian aid. As the hallmark of Trump’s administration, his policy decisions will reflect the “America First” strategy, protecting US interests in international affairs.
3. Secretary of Treasury: Scott Bessent (confirmed)
Confirmed by the Senate on Jan. 27, Bessent is the treasury secretary. He manages the country’s economic and financial systems, ensuring stability and resilience. His key tasks include managing government finances, monitoring tax collection through organizations like the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), and developing economic policies to promote growth and financial security.
Bessent advises the president on fiscal initiatives like taxation, public spending and national debt management. He oversees the issue of Treasury securities to fund government operations and tries to keep the US dollar strong as a worldwide currency.
Internationally, Bessent represents the US in financial institutions such as the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and G7 meetings, promoting collaboration on global economic issues. He also oversees financial regulations that protect markets from fraud and volatility. Bessent’s job is to ensure strong economic policies that protect the country’s financial health and increase its competitiveness in a dynamic global economy.
4. Secretary of Defense: Pete Hegseth (confirmed)
Acquiring the Senate confirmation on Jan. 24, Hegseth is a former Fox News host and an army veteran. As the secretary of defense, he assists the president with national security and military policy, playing a key role in defining defense objectives and drafting global engagement policy for rivals. He is the administrative head of the nation’s military forces, assuring the country’s security and defense.
Principal tasks of Hegseth include creating defense policy, overseeing the Department of Defense’s (DoD) massive budget and ensuring the country’s Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps are battle-ready. He also directs operations to combat ancillary threats such as cybersecurity and terrorism.
5. Secretary of Homeland Security: Kristi Noem (confirmed)
The Senate confirmed Kristi Noem on Jan. 25, 2025. The erstwhile governor of South Dakota is serving as the head of the Department of Homeland Security. She oversees efforts to protect the homeland. Her key responsibilities include border security, counterterrorism, cybersecurity and emergency response. Under her leadership, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) works on stopping unauthorized immigration, fighting human trafficking and protecting key infrastructure.
Noem coordinates efforts to detect and respond to emerging threats such as cyberattacks and terrorism, collaborating closely with federal, state and local agencies. She advocates a strong approach to securing the nation’s transportation systems, ports and airways while upholding legal immigration and citizenship processes.
Did you know? Kristi Noem was first elected to the United States House of Representatives in 2010, serving as South Dakota’s lone representative. She was considered a prospective candidate for the 2024 presidential election but decided not to run.
6. CIA Director: John Ratcliffe (confirmed)
Approved by the Senate on Jan. 23 as the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) director, Ratcliffe has previously served as director of national intelligence.
As CIA director, Ratcliffe oversees the agency’s mission to protect US national security. His key responsibilities include directing intelligence collection, analysis and sharing insights with policymakers and the president. He oversees agency activities worldwide, ensuring that these align with US foreign policy objectives while remaining accountable and compliant with legal frameworks. Ratcliffe has an important role in combating terrorism of all kinds and spying.
In Feb. 2017, the director of the CIA was elevated to Cabinet-level status by the Trump administration. The Biden administration terminated this status after its inauguration but, in July 2023, once again elevated it to Cabinet-level status.
7. Secretary of Veterans Affairs: Doug Collins (confirmed)
Doug Collins is a former Georgia representative who defended Trump during his first impeachment trial. He serves as Veterans Affairs (VA) secretary.
Collins oversees the Department of Veterans Affairs, ensuring comprehensive care and benefits to military veterans and their families. His primary role includes managing VA healthcare facilities, improving access to medical services and addressing the unique health needs of veterans, including mental health and disability support.
As VA secretary, Collins executes programs providing education, housing and employment assistance to help veterans transition to civilian life. Collins also works on initiatives to modernize the VA’s infrastructure and streamline services, ensuring efficiency and accessibility.
8. Attorney General: Pam Bondi (confirmed)
Bondi was the first female attorney general of Florida and a lawyer for Trump during his first impeachment trial. She serves as the US attorney general, representing the federal government in legal matters. She also advises the president and other heads of executive departments on legal issues.
Bondi oversees the Department of Justice (DOJ) and recommends appointments to federal judicial positions and positions within the DOJ. She enforces federal and state laws, including environmental laws, proposes legislation and protects consumers from fraudulent or deceptive business practices.
9. UN ambassador: Elise Stefanik (nominee)
Going through the confirmation process, Elise Stefanik is the highest-ranking woman in the Republican conference in the House of Representatives. She will serve as the US ambassador to the United Nations.
As ambassador to the United Nations, Stefanik will be the country’s primary representative in the UN. Her key tasks will include participating in Security Council meetings, addressing global security challenges and advocating peacekeeping programs aligned with US foreign policy.
Stefanik will work to enhance international partnerships to promote American interests and ideals. Her job is to ensure that the US contributions to the UN promote global stability and economic prosperity. Stefanik would also be tasked with handling humanitarian crises and promoting human rights.
10. OMB chief: Russ Vought (confirmed)
Chief of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) during Trump’s first term, Russ Vought formulates US fiscal policy and supervises the federal budget. One of his responsibilities is to draft and present the president’s annual budget plan to Congress while ensuring that the budget incorporates the objectives of the Trump administration. He oversees the allocation of government funding, focusing on efficiency and fiscal responsibility.
Vought works to enhance accountability and openness in federal expenditures. He examines the economic impact of policies and provides data-driven recommendations to help in decision-making. He helps achieve the administration’s objectives while preserving fiscal discipline.
11. Secretary of Agriculture: Brooke Rollins (nominee)
Heading the America First Policy Institute, Brooke Rollins has been roped in by Trump to lead the Department of Agriculture. If confirmed by the Senate, she will handle programs that help farmers, encourage rural development and maintain food security. She will enforce agriculture policies, ensure food safety and enable local and international trade of US agricultural products.
Rollins will prioritize efforts that improve agricultural sustainability, promote innovation in farming operations and address climate change and natural resource protection issues. She will spearhead efforts to help farmers and ranchers with subsidies, disaster assistance programs and crop insurance.
12. Secretary of Transportation: Sean Duffy (confirmed)
Sean Duffy, an ex-co-host on Fox Business, leads the Department of Transportation. He works for the safety, efficiency and modernization of the country’s transportation networks. His responsibilities include infrastructure projects such as roadways, railways and airports, while ensuring that federal transportation money is used effectively.
Duffy works to draft regulations for self-driving vehicles and promote sustainable transportation measures. He works with state and local administrations to improve national connectivity, economic growth and transportation innovation.
13. Secretary of Energy: Chris Wright (confirmed)
Chris Wright is an oil and gas industry executive with no political experience. He leads the Department of Energy. He focuses on energy policy, innovation and security. His responsibilities include fostering clean energy technology, assuring grid reliability and directing the nation’s nuclear programs.
Wright encourages energy independence by promoting domestic energy production and renewable resources. He works with stakeholders to combat climate change, increase energy efficiency and ensure the safety and sustainability of the US energy infrastructure.
14. Interior Secretary: Doug Burgum (confirmed)
Doug Burgum, governor of North Dakota, is the interior secretary. He manages federal lands, natural resources and wildlife conservation activities. He oversees national parks, public lands and programs to safeguard cultural heritage and endangered animals.
Burgum prioritizes balanced resource development and environmental preservation, combating climate change and encouraging partnerships with Indigenous populations. He also endeavors to promote outdoor recreation, manage water resources and ensure the sustainable use of natural resources for the present and future generations.
15. EPA administrator: Lee Zeldin (confirmed)
Approved by the Senate on Jan. 29, Lee Zeldin is a former New York congressman and one of the youngest members of the Cabinet. As Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) administrator, he oversees the agency’s efforts to preserve air, water and land resources. His responsibilities include enforcing environmental legislation, minimizing pollution and supporting sustainable energy projects.
Zeldin oversees efforts to combat climate change, enhance public health through environmental safeguards and work with states and the private sector to implement sustainable practices. His job entails balancing economic growth and environmental protection, framing policies that support both environmental resilience and the needs of American communities.
16. HUD Secretary: Scott Turner (confirmed)
A former NFL player and White House aide, Scott Turner has been appointed as Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) secretary. He oversees affordable housing, urban development and prevention of homelessness. He administers public housing aid programs, Federal Housing Administration loans and fair housing initiatives.
Turner focuses on rebuilding disadvantaged neighborhoods, increasing access to affordable housing and fostering economic development in urban and rural areas. He works with local governments and charities to improve living conditions and promote housing stability.
17. Secretary of Commerce: Howard Lutnick (nominee)
Nominated by Trump as the secretary of commerce, Howard Lutnick was a co-chair of his transition team. Lutnick will focus on advancing US trade, fostering economic growth and promoting innovation, if confirmed by the Senate. He will oversee agencies that regulate international trade, ensure fair market practices and support businesses, especially in the technology and manufacturing sectors.
Lutnick will work to strengthen relationships with global partners, implement trade agreements and create policies that boost domestic job creation. His responsibilities will include enhancing intellectual property protections, supporting small businesses and leveraging data to guide economic strategies for long-term national competitiveness.
18. Labor Secretary: Lori Chavez-DeRemer (nominee)
Going through the process of confirmation, Lori Chavez-DeRemer is an Oregon Republican. If confirmed, she will be responsible for ensuring fair workplace practices, enforcing labor laws and protecting workers’ rights. She will oversee agencies like the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to maintain workplace safety and the Wage and Hour Division (WHD) to uphold minimum wage and overtime laws.
Chavez-DeRemer will also focus on job training programs, unemployment benefits and workforce challenges like automation. Her role includes collaborating with businesses and unions to promote equitable employment opportunities and support economic growth through a skilled workforce.
19. Secretary of Health and Human Services: Robert F. Kennedy Jr. (confirmed)
Known by his initials, RFK Jr., Robert F. Kennedy Jr., is the secretary of Health and Human Services. He manages public health, welfare and medical research programs. His responsibilities include overseeing agencies like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), addressing healthcare disparities and implementing policies to improve access to medical services.
Kennedy also directs emergency responses to health crises, supports mental health initiatives and promotes advancements in medical technology. Ensuring the effective administration of Medicare and Medicaid is a core part of his role in safeguarding public health.
20. Education Secretary: Linda McMahon (nominee)
Yet to be confirmed, McMahon is Trump’s pick for education secretary. If approved, she will focus on improving school choice for students. In Trump’s own words, McMahon would work to expand “choice” across the US and send education back to the states. She will support state and local education initiatives and address K-12 and higher education system challenges.
McMahon emphasizes workforce readiness by promoting STEM education and vocational training. STEM is an interdisciplinary approach to learning that clubs science, technology, engineering and math.
21. National Intelligence Director: Tulsi Gabbard (confirmed)
Former Democrat Tulsi Gabbard is the director of National Intelligence. She coordinates the activities of federal agencies like the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), the National Security Agency (NSA) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
As NI director, Tulsi’s responsibilities include assessing global threats, advising the president and policymakers and ensuring effective information sharing to protect national security. Gabbard oversees counterterrorism efforts, cybersecurity strategies and intelligence analysis to address emerging risks.
22. US trade representative: Jamieson Greer (nominee)
In the process of getting Senate confirmation, Jamieson Greer is known for enacting the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), a revamped trade pact. If confirmed, Greer will oversee trade negotiations, enforce international agreements, and shape policies to boost American exports. His responsibilities will include representing the US in global trade forums, addressing disputes at the WTO and negotiating agreements to ensure fair competition.
Did you know? Donald Trump first won the general election for the US presidency on Nov. 8, 2016, and took the presidential oath of office on Jan. 20, 2017.
23. SBA Administrator: Kelly Loeffler (nominee)
If approved by the Senate, former senator Kelly Loeffler will be working as the Trump administration’s Small Business Administration (SBA) administrator. Loeffler will lead efforts to support small businesses through loan programs, grants and advisory services.
She will oversee federal initiatives that fund startups, disaster relief assistance and support for minority-owned businesses. Her role will include advocating for policies that reduce regulatory burdens on entrepreneurs and expand access to capital.
24. CMS Administrator: Dr. Mehmet Oz (nominee)
Yet to be confirmed, Dr. Mehmet Oz is Professor emeritus of cardiothoracic surgery at Columbia University. If approved, Oz will be the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) administrator.
He will oversee Medicare, Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act programs, ensuring healthcare coverage for millions of Americans. His responsibilities will include managing healthcare spending, implementing cost-saving measures and improving patient outcomes through policy reforms.
25. FCC Chair: Brendan Carr (confirmed)
Brendan Carr does not require Senate confirmation as the chair of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) because he is in the middle of a term and has already been approved by the Senate. An advocate of free speech and a critic of Big Tech, Brendan Carr regulates communications industries, including broadband, television and radio, as the chair of the FCC.
Carr works with lawmakers to shape digital infrastructure policies, ensure fair competition in the telecom sector and manage the wireless spectrum allocation. He works to balance regulatory compliance and promote innovation in the communications industry.
26. FBI Director: Kash Patel (confirmed)
An American lawyer and former federal prosecutor at the US Department of Justice, Kash Patel is the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) director. As FBI director, Patel will report to the attorney general, as the FBI is part of the DOJ.
Patel oversees the FBI’s day-to-day operations, including hiring leaders for field offices. He advises the president on the issues related to the FBI, maintains public trust, investigates crimes and provides staff support functions such as finance management
US Cabinet under Trump 2.0 and crypto: A pro-growth, innovation-friendly approach?
The collective stance of Trump’s second-term Cabinet on cryptocurrency regulation and adoption appears to lean toward a more supportive and innovation-friendly approach, reflecting the administration’s broader emphasis on economic growth.
Vice President JD Vance previously criticized SEC Chair Gary Gensler’s crypto regulation, calling it overly politicized and the “exact opposite” of what’s needed. This sentiment suggests a push for a balanced regulatory framework that fosters innovation while protecting investors.
Key Cabinet members, such as Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, will likely prioritize policies that encourage domestic crypto development, enhance financial competitiveness and integrate digital assets into the broader economy.
Additionally, the administration’s focus on “America First” policies may lead to efforts to position the US as a global leader in cryptocurrency adoption, potentially through clearer regulations and support for blockchain technology.
Still, national security and financial stability concerns, particularly from officials like Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and FBI Director Kash Patel, may result in measures to address illicit activities and ensure robust oversight.
This pragmatic approach aims to foster innovation while implementing safeguards to protect investors and national security.
Written by Dilip Kumar Patairya