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Tennessee Senator Bill Hagerty has emerged as a crucial figure for mainstream Republicans and foreign diplomats who hope that he can temper some of Donald Trump’s more extreme policies if Trump wins back the presidency. With most of the GOP's old guard sidelined, Hagerty is seen as a vital link between Trump and the more traditional elements of the Republican Party.

Hagerty, a former private equity investor with experience working for President George H.W. Bush and Mitt Romney’s 2012 campaign, has transformed into a staunch Trump supporter since joining Trump’s transition team in 2016. Despite his alignment with Trump's vision, Hagerty has managed to maintain his standing with the GOP's old-school core.

Retired Gen. H.R. McMaster, Trump's former national security adviser, praised Hagerty’s blend of diplomatic experience and business acumen, stating that Hagerty understands how to navigate Capitol Hill and has valuable international relationships. This combination has placed Hagerty on Trump's shortlist for several key Cabinet positions, including U.S. Trade Representative, Commerce Secretary, or even Secretary of State or Treasury.

Since his time as ambassador to Japan and now a first-term senator, Hagerty has cultivated a reputation as a bridge between Trump’s populism and the concerns of diplomats and financial circles. His political maneuvers and policy stances have led to speculations of a significant role in a potential second Trump administration, despite the senator's careful avoidance of publicly expressing interest in such roles.

Hagerty’s alignment with Trump’s agenda is evident in his legislative actions, such as hosting cryptocurrency discussions and aligning with Trump on key economic policies. However, those close to Hagerty insist that viewing him as a moderating force on Trump is a misunderstanding. Stephen Miller, a former senior adviser to Trump, emphasized that while Hagerty has a soothing demeanor, he is staunchly committed to Trump’s agenda.

The financial sector and foreign diplomats, particularly from Japan, see Hagerty as someone who can bring stability to a Trump administration while ensuring Trump's policies are effectively implemented. Japanese officials remember Hagerty's diplomatic prowess during his tenure as ambassador, which helped navigate tensions and secure beneficial agreements despite Trump's aggressive trade policies.

In the Senate, Hagerty has worked to build bipartisan relationships, evident in his support for Biden’s pick for Ambassador to Japan, Rahm Emanuel. Democrat Senators like Tim Kaine and Ron Wyden acknowledge Hagerty’s straightforwardness and savvy in trade and foreign relations.

As the political landscape anticipates the possibility of Trump’s return, Bill Hagerty stands out as a pivotal figure who bridges the divide between Trump’s loyalists and the wider GOP, making him a potential cornerstone of any future Trump administration.