In a dramatic shift aimed at reshaping the US federal government, Donald Trump has openly vowed to dismantle what he perceives as a liberal “deep state” operating in Washington. Following his decisive victory over Democrat Kamala Harris, the 78-year-old former president is banking on retaining Republican control in the Senate to push through his controversial nominations, which are dominating headlines and raising eyebrows across the political spectrum.
Trump’s early nominees include conservative Florida Senator Marco Rubio for Secretary of State, a choice reflecting a hawkish foreign policy approach. However, as the dust settles from last week’s election, this selection appears overshadowed by a series of disconcerting appointments that underscore Trump’s preference for loyalty over experience.
Among the most controversial picks is far-right former congressman Matt Gaetz for Attorney General, who, until recently, was under investigation by Congress for allegations of sexual misconduct and illicit drug use. This nomination has drawn sharp criticism, raising concerns about the integrity of the Justice Department under such leadership.
Other polarising selections include Robert Kennedy Jr., known for his sceptical views on vaccines, as Health Secretary, and Tulsi Gabbard, a conspiracy theorist implicated in disseminating Kremlin propaganda, as Director of National Intelligence. Rounding out the contentious roster is ex-Fox News anchor Pete Hegseth, who will be tasked with overseeing the world’s most formidable military without any previous experience managing large organisations.
In addition to these key posts, Trump has chosen some of his personal attorneys to occupy top roles within the Justice Department, further solidifying a known circle of loyalty around him. The incoming president has called for fast-tracked approval for his nominees, aiming for some “recess appointments” that would bypass full Senate hearings, a move described by analysts as an early loyalty test for a likely Republican-controlled Senate, which could see a split of 53-47.
Supporters of Trump celebrate his overwhelming victory, believing it grants him ample authority to overhaul the federal bureaucracy and make significant cuts to government spending. Nonetheless, analysts caution that the impending Senate confirmation process for his more contentious choices could lead to turbulence, especially as legislative scrutiny intensifies.
“I do think that they are looking to essentially shock and overwhelm the system so that they can maximise what the system will tolerate,” noted Trump biographer and New York Times journalist Maggie Haberman, speaking on CNN on Thursday.
While multiple high-profile positions remain unfilled, Wall Street watches closely as details around the pick for Treasury Secretary emerge. US Senator Lindsey Graham, known for his role as a Trump confidant, is reportedly advocating for Scott Bessent, another South Carolinian, but the competition for this prestigious role remains fierce.
Trump’s agenda is also likely to include significant upheaval within the FBI, with a strong possibility of him displacing current Director Christopher Wray. Appointed in 2017, Wray’s tenure has drawn Trump’s ire, particularly following the agency’s controversial raid on his Mar-a-Lago residence in search of classified documents. Following meetings with the transition team, ex-congressman and former FBI agent Mike Rogers has emerged as a top contender to replace Wray, highlighting the resurgence of Trump loyalists poised to realign the agency’s priorities.
This audacious reshuffling within the federal government marks a bold step for Trump, aiming to recast an administration now defined by partisan divisions. The coming weeks promise to be critical as the Senate prepares for what could be a contentious confirmation battle.