Trump Preparing for Office: Cabinet and Staff Picks

President-elect Donald Trump’s top aide, Steve Bannon

In the days following the election, President-elect Donald Trump has begun to select the men and women who will assist and advise him when he takes office. Among the possible appointees are billionaires, generals, southern government officials, and even some Trump critics. Trump’s rapidly shifting views and complete lack of government experience could indicate that these groups will most likely dictate the president’s future actions. But most candidates are not the moderate, diplomatic sort that are necessary to restrain the loose cannon that is our new president.

Stephen Bannon, nominated as chief strategist, joined Trump’s campaign as its chairman late in the race. He was formerly Executive Chairman of Breitbart News, a far right newspaper responsible for propagating racism, sexism, and xenophobia. Bannon’s appointment earned admiration from David Duke, known for his leadership in the KKK and the American Nazi Party. Other political figures including Mitt Romney and Ben Carson have been named as potential candidates for cabinet positions, the latter considered to be the leading candidate for Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, a strange position for a brain surgeon. Perhaps Trump finds comfort in surrounding himself with others who have no policy or experience in office.

Finally, we must give Mr. Trump some credit for his attempt at diversity (and his willingness to allow harsh critics into his ranks). Nikki Haley’s appointment as UN Ambassador may not seem characteristic of Trump, but her pro-life stance and generally conservative views bring little variety to the cabinet. Overall, Trump’s picks align with his prior beliefs, crushing hopes that a more moderate group could provide balance in our uncertain and unstable future.