Trump’s new government formation is underway, with key personnel appointments, including Susan Wiles as Chief of Staff. He plans to meet President Biden for a formal transition discussion, marking a significant moment following the election. Notably, former associates Mike Pompeo and Nikki Haley will not be part of his administration. Trump’s approach to Ukraine contrasts with previous military aid proposals. He secured a victory in Arizona, a pivotal shift from the last election cycle.
Transitioning Power: Trump’s New Government
The identity of the selected members for the new US government under President Trump remains uncertain. However, it is clear that he intends to move forward without two of his former associates. The formal handover of responsibilities will commence with a meeting between Trump and the current President Biden.
The transition of power at the White House is no simple feat. In the weeks to come, President Trump will be busy assembling his new team while simultaneously receiving detailed briefings on the current activities across various government offices, ministries, and agencies. This is crucial to ensure a seamless transfer of authority.
Upcoming Meeting Between Biden and Trump
Next week marks a significant event as Trump plans to meet with Democratic incumbent Joe Biden. The White House has confirmed that the meeting will take place on Wednesday in the Oval Office. This encounter is one of the few direct interactions between the two leaders, the last being during a televised debate at the end of June.
Following the election, Biden reached out to Trump to congratulate him on his victory and extended an invitation to visit the White House. This gesture aligns with the traditional protocol for power transitions. In 2016, former President Barack Obama similarly welcomed Trump for discussions post-election. However, Trump deviated from this norm during the 2020 transition, opting not to invite Biden to the White House after his loss.
Trump has initiated his first personnel decision by appointing Susan Wiles as his Chief of Staff. However, the composition of his new government team is still largely unknown.
In a recent statement, Trump clarified that former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and former UN Ambassador Nikki Haley will not take part in his administration. He expressed gratitude for their previous service but confirmed that he would not be “inviting” them into his cabinet on his platform, Truth Social.
Both Pompeo and Haley played significant roles during Trump’s first term from 2017 to 2021. Haley was initially a contender against Trump in the Republican primaries before endorsing him, while Pompeo was considered for the position of Secretary of Defense.
Insights on Ukraine and Future Appointments
After a meeting with Hungarian Prime Minister Orban, insights into Trump’s plans regarding Ukraine emerged. Pompeo had previously proposed a strategy for military aid to Ukraine amidst the Russian invasion, advocating for increased arms exports and stringent sanctions on Russia’s energy sector. This approach starkly contrasts with Trump’s campaign rhetoric, where he expressed skepticism towards military support for Ukraine.
Trump is set to be inaugurated as President on January 20. In the lead-up to this date, he is expected to announce key appointments for his administration. Notably, many individuals from his previous term are no longer under consideration due to estrangements with Trump.
Additionally, it has been confirmed that Trump has secured victory in Arizona, adding to his wins in all crucial swing states. In this election cycle, seven states were pivotal: Pennsylvania, Michigan, Wisconsin, North Carolina, Georgia, Nevada, and Arizona. Unlike the previous election, where Biden won most of these states, Trump’s victory in Arizona marks a significant shift.