**Trump Administration Assembles Key Figures for Second Term**

In the wake of his victory in the 2024 election, President-elect Donald Trump has rapidly begun to assemble his administration, appointing several prominent figures to key White House and Cabinet roles. These appointments include loyal campaign aides, former members of Congress, and familiar figures from his first presidency.

Tulsi Gabbard, a former Democratic House member from Hawaii who has since become a vocal Trump supporter, has been a surprising pick due to her lack of experience in intelligence. Despite not serving on the Intelligence Committee, Gabbard brings her credentials as a lieutenant colonel in the Army Reserve and a veteran of the Iraq War.

Trump has chosen Matt Gaetz to helm the Justice Department, an agency that has often been in Trump's crosshairs especially after his federal charges post-office. Gaetz, a controversial House figure known for his efforts to oust Speaker Kevin McCarthy, has echoed Trump's critical stance and vigorously defended those implicated in the Jan. 6 Capitol attack.

Pete Hegseth, an Army National Guard veteran and former Fox News co-host, has been appointed to address cultural and diversity issues within the military. Known for his critical views on diversity programs and women in combat roles, Hegseth is expected to push for significant changes in military policy.

Tom Homan, previously the acting director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) under both Obama and Trump, has been tasked with overseeing border security with Mexico and Canada, as well as maritime and aviation security. Homan is recognized for his tough stance on immigration, promising the largest deportation efforts in U.S. history.

Mike Huckabee, the former Arkansas governor, has been nominated as the U.S. ambassador to Israel, marking the first non-Jewish appointment since 2011. Huckabee is a staunch supporter of Israel, having controversially called the West Bank a part of Israel during his 2016 presidential campaign.

Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy are set to lead a newly created Department of Government Efficiency, tasked with overhauling federal bureaucracy and government spending by July 2, 2026. Although they will hold advisory roles, their influence is expected to be significant as they coordinate with the Office of Management and Budget.

Lastly, South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem has been assigned oversight of several national security departments, including ICE, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, FEMA, and the Secret Service. Known for her hardline views on immigration, Noem has previously described the situation as an "invasion."

These appointments indicate the direction Trump’s second term is likely to take, with a focus on strong immigration policies, military reform, and government efficiency.