**Trump Reveals Key Cabinet Picks Ahead of January Return**

President-elect Donald Trump is diligently selecting individuals to fill vital Cabinet positions and other roles in his administration as he readies for his return to power in January. This flurry of activity comes on the heels of his election victory over Vice President Kamala Harris. Leveraging a Republican-controlled Senate and potentially a Republican-controlled House, Trump aims to secure the confirmations for his appointees swiftly, though the possibility of recess appointments hints that some choices may spark controversy.

Reportedly, Trump is expected to name Florida Senator Marco Rubio as the next secretary of state, according to sources familiar with the situation. As the vice-chair of the Senate Select Committee on Foreign Intelligence and a member of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, Rubio is known for his firm stances on China, Iran, and Russia. Recently, he has also echoed Trump's views on Ukraine. Rubio's appointment will require Senate confirmation.

Trump has confirmed the appointment of Tom Homan, former Acting Director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), as the "border czar," a role that involves overseeing the mass deportations promised during Trump's campaign. Homan, who led ICE for a year and a half under Trump, was instrumental during the implementation of the contentious "zero tolerance" policy that resulted in family separations at the border. This position does not require Senate confirmation.

Susie Wiles has been designated as the first female chief of staff for any White House, marking a historic milestone. Wiles, who was Trump's co-campaign manager for his 2024 campaign, has been credited for her significant contributions to his 2016 and 2020 campaigns as well. The role of chief of staff does not necessitate Senate confirmation.

Stephen Miller is expected to be named deputy chief of staff for policy. Miller, a key architect of Trump's stringent immigration policies during his previous term, will play a crucial role in advancing the administration's agenda on immigration. This position also bypasses the need for Senate confirmation.

For the role of U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, Trump has chosen New York Representative Elise Stefanik. Known for her transformation from a moderate Republican to a staunch supporter of Trump, Stefanik has made a name for herself by vocally defending Trump during his impeachment trials and his 2020 election loss. Her appointment will need to be ratified by the Senate.

Trump's pick for the head of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is former New York Congressman Lee Zeldin. Zeldin, who represented Suffolk County on Long Island for eight years, has vowed to reduce regulations that he believes stifle businesses while advocating for energy independence and protection of clean air and water. This role will also require Senate confirmation.

Finally, Trump has tapped Florida Representative Michael Waltz as his national security adviser. Waltz, the first Green Beret elected to the House, brings extensive experience from his roles on the House Intelligence, Armed Services, and Foreign Affairs committees. This appointment does not require Senate confirmation.

As Trump continues to unveil his team, these selections reflect a blend of loyalty, experience, and alignment with his administrative goals, setting the stage for a potentially transformative tenure.