After winning the election, President-elect Donald Trump has started appointing people for prominent supporters in his administration. He’s picking well-known supporters who have backed him, including some billionaires and media figures. So far, he has named people like Elon Musk, Vivek Ramaswamy, and Pete Hegseth, a host from Fox News, for major roles. Many of these picks are people who have supported Trump for a long time. Here’s a quick look at who’s joining Trump’s team and what roles they will have.

Department of government efficiency: Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy

President-elect Trump has chosen Elon Musk, the billionaire CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, along with former Republican candidate Vivek Ramaswamy, to lead a new department called the “Department of Government Efficiency,” or “DOGE.” The goal of this department is to make the government work more smoothly, cut down on unnecessary rules, and save money. Trump is hopeful that this team will bring helpful ideas from outside the government, focusing on smarter spending and fewer regulations. Musk, who donated over $100 million to support Trump, will use his business skills to help improve the way the government runs.

Secretary of defence: Pete Hegseth

Trump has chosen Pete Hegseth, a military veteran and Fox News host, as the new Secretary of Defence. Hegseth served with the Army National Guard in places like Cuba, Afghanistan, and Iraq, and he has openly supported Trump’s ideas on national security.

CIA Director: John Ratcliffe

Trump has named John Ratcliffe, the former Director of National Intelligence (DNI), to head the CIA. In his role as DNI, Ratcliffe was a main advisor to Trump and supported making intelligence information more open to the public, including details about the 2016 cyberattack on the Democratic National Committee.

White House Counsel: William McGinley

William McGinley, former cabinet secretary for Trump’s first administration, has been appointed White House Counsel. McGinley, who played an important role in Trump’s 2016 campaign and coordinated policy and ethics advice for cabinet members, is a trusted figure in the Trump camp.

Special envoy to the Middle East: Real estate investor Steven Witkoff

Trump has tapped Steven Witkoff, a prominent real estate investor and long-time ally, to be his special envoy to the Middle East. Witkoff has important experience in real estate and business, as well as a close friendship with Trump, making him a valued adviser on Middle Eastern affairs.

U.S. Ambassador to Israel: Mike Huckabee

Former Arkansas Governor and Southern Baptist pastor Mike Huckabee has been appointed as Trump’s U.S. Ambassador to Israel. Huckabee has been a vocal supporter of Israel, advocating for the annexation of parts of the West Bank and backing Israeli settlers. He is expected to take a strong pro-Israel stance, aligning with Trump’s policy of support for Israel’s territorial claims.

National Security Adviser: Congressman Mike Waltz

Rep. Mike Waltz, a former Army Green Beret, has been appointed National Security Adviser. Waltz, who has consistently advocated for stronger defence policies, has also been vocal on matters involving NATO contributions and U.S. relations with China. His appointment signals Trump’s intent to prioritise a tough stance on national security and international alliances.

Secretary of Homeland Security: South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem

South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem is expected to lead the Department of Homeland Security. Noem’s role will encompass enforcing Trump’s immigration policies, strengthening cybersecurity, and responding to national emergencies. Her appointment is seen as a strategic choice due to her loyalty to Trump and alignment with his stance on national security issues.

Secretary of State: Marco Rubio

Senator Marco Rubio, a key Republican voice on foreign policy, is reportedly Trump’s favourite candidate for Secretary of State. Rubio has advocated a firm approach to relations with China and Iran and has shown interest in negotiating an end to the Ukraine conflict. Though Rubio was initially a 2016 primary opponent of Trump, their relationship has grown closer over recent years, leading to this anticipated appointment.

EPA Administrator: Lee Zeldin

Former Congressman Lee Zeldin will head the Environmental Protection Agency. Trump praised Zeldin’s strong legal skills and dedication to America First policies, indicating that the EPA under Zeldin’s leadership will focus on deregulation and pro-business initiatives while maintaining environmental standards.

Additional appointments and potential candidates

  • Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy: Trump is likely to appoint Stephen Miller, a former senior adviser who played a pivotal role in shaping immigration policies in Trump’s first term.
  • Border Czar: Trump has selected former ICE Director Tom Homan for this role, with plans for a renewed focus on mass deportations.
  • U.N. Ambassador: Rep. Elise Stefanik, a GOP Conference Chair, is set to be Trump’s choice for U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations.
  • Chief of Staff: Susie Wiles, Trump’s campaign co-manager, has been appointed Chief of Staff, making history as the first woman in this position.
  • Attorney general: Trump is expected to overhaul the Department of Justice, prioritising candidates who align closely with his views. Possible contenders include Sen. Mike Lee, former DNI Director John Ratcliffe, and federal Judge Aileen Cannon.
  • Treasury secretary: Candidates reportedly include Sen. Bill Hagerty, Cantor Fitzgerald CEO Howard Lutnick, and trade representative Robert Lighthizer, with Trump reportedly favouring candidates with Wall Street experience.
  • Defence secretary: Rep. Mike Rogers, House Armed Services Chair, has been considered for the role.
  • Energy secretary: Former North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, an oil industry advocate, is a top contender.
  • Education secretary Vivek Ramaswamy and former Secretary Betsy DeVos are both under consideration, with Trump’s interest in decentralising education.
  • Health role for RFK Jr.: Trump has indicated interest in having Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a known vaccine sceptic, work on health policies in the administration.

Since winning the election, Trump has been working from his Mar-a-Lago estate, meeting with friends and advisors to plan his goals for his second term. Wealthy supporters like Elon Musk and Howard Lutnick are helping him pick people for important jobs, and groups like the America First Policy Institute are creating policy ideas for the new administration.

Trump's main priorities include cutting down on government red tape, enforcing strict immigration rules, and keeping an "America First" approach in global matters.