As discussions swirl around potential Cabinet appointments for a second Trump administration, the Trump campaign describes these talks as “premature.” However, the rumor mill in D.C. is buzzing with speculation about who might take on key roles.

Notably, Trump faces a unique situation: many former Cabinet members have not expressed support for him, suggesting that loyalty will be crucial in future appointments. Leading the transition team are Linda McMahon, former head of the Small Business Administration, and businessman Howard Lutnick, with significant involvement from Trump’s running mate, Sen. JD Vance, Donald Trump Jr., Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and Tulsi Gabbard.

Key Cabinet Roles Under Consideration

Secretary of State:
Prominent contenders include Sen. Marco Rubio, who has experience on the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, and Sen. Tom Cotton, an Army veteran with strong views. Former National Security Adviser Robert O’Brien is also a serious candidate.

Secretary of Defense:
Possible nominees include Sen. Cotton, Rep. Michael Waltz, and former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. Christopher Miller, who served as acting Pentagon chief, may also be considered.

Attorney General:
Sen. Eric Schmitt and Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton are potential picks, focusing on immigration and executive power.

Energy Secretary:
Trump has hinted at North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum as a frontrunner, prioritizing energy deregulation.

Treasury Secretary:
Hedge fund manager John Paulson and former Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer are being eyed for this critical position, with Steven Mnuchin also a potential candidate.

Commerce Secretary:
Lighthizer and Linda McMahon are among those mentioned, as they prepare for aggressive tariff policies.

A Democrat in the Cabinet?
Trump has expressed willingness to nominate a Democrat if their views align. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and former Rep. Tulsi Gabbard are names that may surface.

Additional Contenders:
Other potential Cabinet members could include Ben Carson, Rep. Brian Mast, Andrew Wheeler, and Vivek Ramaswamy, each with connections to Trump and varied backgrounds.

As the election approaches, these potential appointments could significantly shape the future direction of U.S. policy.