As the Republican Party prepares for the 2024 elections, notable figures are aligning with Trump, including Susie Wiles as Chief of Staff, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. in health policy, and potential appointments for Elon Musk, Richard Grenell, Mike Pompeo, Scott Bessent, and Tom Homan in various significant roles. These individuals bring diverse backgrounds and expertise, shaping a campaign focused on Trump’s agenda and policies.
Preparing for the 2024 US Elections
From vaccine skeptics to tech moguls and former diplomats: The Republican Party is gathering a fresh team around Trump, with some well-known figures potentially making a comeback. Here’s a closer look.
Introducing Susie Wiles
President Donald Trump has made a pivotal choice in his administration by appointing Susie Wiles as his Chief of Staff. This marks a historic moment as Wiles becomes the first woman to hold this influential role, overseeing access to the President and the Oval Office—one of the most significant positions within any administration.
For years, Wiles has been a trusted political strategist within Trump’s circle. At 67, this Florida-based Republican strategist has a rich history, having campaigned for Ronald Reagan in 1980 and leading Trump’s campaign in Florida during the 2016 and 2020 elections.
Her strategic prowess has played a vital role in this year’s campaign success, often working behind the scenes.
During his victory speech, Trump celebrated Wiles, referring to her as the “ice maiden,” and praised her toughness, intelligence, and innovative spirit as justifications for her new role.
Susie Wiles: Successful campaign strategist and newly appointed Chief of Staff in the White House.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s New Role
Right before the election, Trump announced that Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a notable vaccine skeptic, would take on a significant role in health policy. Kennedy has previously made controversial claims about Covid-19 and vaccine safety.
He recently stirred conversation with a proposal to eliminate fluoride from drinking water if Trump secures the presidency. In the U.S., drinking water is often fluoridated to prevent dental issues, as recommended by the CDC. However, Kennedy argues that fluoride is linked to serious health issues.
Initially an independent candidate, Kennedy withdrew his candidacy and aligned himself with Trump. Coming from the prominent Kennedy family, he faces criticism for promoting conspiracy theories and associating with far-right figures.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr.: The vaccine opponent poised for a health policy position.
Elon Musk’s Influence
During the election campaign, billionaire Elon Musk showed enthusiastic support for Trump, contributing a staggering million dollars daily to pro-Trump initiatives over a two-week period.
In return, Trump may offer Musk a position, having previously suggested appointing him to oversee a committee focused on reviewing U.S. government expenditure.
However, this potential role could raise concerns regarding conflicts of interest, given that Musk’s SpaceX is a government contractor, and Tesla relies on regulatory decisions from U.S. authorities. Musk’s companies are currently under scrutiny, including investigations by the SEC related to his acquisition of Twitter (now X).
Reports indicate that while a ministerial role for Musk is unlikely, an advisory position remains a possibility.
Elon Musk: The tech billionaire stands firmly with Trump and may receive a significant role.
Richard Grenell’s Potential Appointment
Having served as ambassador to Germany in 2018, Richard Grenell is now being considered for either Secretary of State or National Security Advisor in 2025. The 58-year-old is a staunch advocate of Trump’s ‘America First’ doctrine and is trusted on foreign policy matters.
During his time in Berlin, Grenell was vocal in criticizing then-Chancellor Angela Merkel for what he perceived as inadequate NATO contributions.
Post-ambassadorship, he made headlines with provocative statements, including a controversial suggestion of creating autonomous zones in Ukraine to resolve the conflict, which drew criticism in Kyiv.
Richard Grenell: A key name in discussions for the new Secretary of State.
Mike Pompeo’s Return
Mike Pompeo, who has extensive experience in international relations, is being considered for the Secretary of Defense position after previously serving as CIA Director and Secretary of State during Trump’s first term. He is known for his isolationist views while being a strong supporter of Israel and engaging in diplomatic efforts with North Korea.
His loyalty to Trump could benefit him in this new potential role. According to reports, he is recognized as a solid supporter of Ukraine, which could create internal conflicts within Trump’s advisory team.
Mike Pompeo: Former Secretary of State and a strong contender for Secretary of Defense.
Scott Bessent’s Economic Insight
Scott Bessent, a seasoned hedge fund manager and economic advisor to Trump, is being eyed for the Secretary of the Treasury position. With a background in academia from Yale University, Bessent has a close relationship with Trump and his potential Vice President, J.D. Vance.
Initially advocating for a laissez-faire approach to the economy, he has since praised Trump’s policies that include imposing tariffs.
Scott Bessent: A leading candidate for Secretary of the Treasury with a strong economic background.
Tom Homan’s Immigration Policies
Tom Homan, who previously served as the director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), is being discussed for the role of Secretary of Homeland Security in Trump’s second term. He was instrumental in enforcing strict immigration policies that led to the separation of migrant families at the border.
As a prominent figure in Trump’s immigration framework, Homan has actively participated in campaign events and frequently comments on immigration matters on conservative media platforms.
He has also contributed to the Heritage Foundation’s ‘Project 2025,’ a radical initiative aimed at overhauling the U.S. government with ultra-right perspectives.
Tom Homan: A staunch advocate for stringent immigration policies and a candidate for Secretary of Homeland Security.