### The Rising Influence of the America First Policy Institute in Trump's Second Term Planning

A relatively unknown organization, the America First Policy Institute (AFPI), is swiftly emerging as a formidable force in the planning for Donald J. Trump's potential second term. Despite being founded less than four years ago, AFPI is set to play a more pivotal role than even established entities like Project 2025.

In late summer, a high-profile right-wing think tank brought together conservatives nationwide for a series of training sessions aimed at preparing for a second Trump administration. These sessions, held in Washington, featured former Trump officials who provided insights on handling left-leaning federal employees and navigating mainstream media challenges. Attendees left equipped with extensive materials, including a section titled "Tales From the Swamp: How Federal Bureaucrats Resisted President Trump."

While it might seem these sessions were organized by Project 2025, a conservative policy and personnel initiative backed by the Heritage Foundation, they were actually orchestrated by AFPI. Operating with minimal public attention, AFPI has entrenched itself deeply within Trump's political framework, becoming the primary entity supporting his campaign's concrete plans for a second term.

AFPI was established in late 2020 by three wealthy Texans and has since integrated itself into almost every facet of Trump's political strategy. Notably, Trump appointed Linda McMahon, a former cabinet member and longtime confidante, as co-chair of his official transition team. Brooke Rollins, another former Trump administration official and currently AFPI’s chief executive, has been rumored as a potential chief of staff for a future Trump administration. AFPI's team is brimming with former Trump officials who have spent years strategizing for a return. Recently, several of these officials have transitioned to working full-time on Trump’s campaign transition team.

As AFPI continues to solidify its role, it stands poised to shape the policies and personnel that could define another Trump term, overshadowing other conservative groups in the process.