Staff Reports
The whirlwind of appointments for the Trump administration shows no signs of slowing down, as President-elect Donald Trump marches forward with his selections for the various positions in his upcoming Cabinet. With the pace of a caffeinated jackrabbit, Trump has now nominated a slew of individuals, including key roles like the director of the National Institutes of Health, Navy secretary, and U.S. trade representative, among others. It seems the swamp is about to be drained a little faster.
First up on this illustrious roster is Dr. Jay Bhattacharya, a Stanford health policy professor, who has become known for his vocal criticism of the government’s COVID-19 strategies. Not one to go along with the mainstream narrative, he co-authored the Great Barrington Declaration, a bold proposal advocating for ending lockdowns and steering the nation toward herd immunity. This rational approach, which flies in the face of pandemic overreach, could serve as a refreshing change of pace at the NIH, assuming he sails smoothly through the confirmation process in a GOP-led Senate.
Next in line is John Phelan, who, while lacking personal military service, has a notable background in the finance sector. As the founder of Rugger Management and a key figure in private equity, Phelan’s experience could bring a refreshing pragmatism to the Navy and Marine Corps. Having also contributed to Trump’s campaign, he seems to embody the Trumpian ethos of having real-world experience that transcends traditional political norms. Now he just needs to convince the Senate to get on board.
In a move that seems poised to echo the strong trade policies of his previous term, Jamieson Greer steps into the role of U.S. trade representative. This Air Force veteran and former chief of staff under Bob Lighthizer is set to take on the task of imposing tariffs—perhaps a clear signal that the nation’s trade practices are about to take a decidedly firmer turn. His past performance indicates he’ll work alongside Kevin Hassett, returning as the director of the White House National Economic Council. Hassett is not only familiar with shaping economic policies thanks to his role in the past administration but is now charged with extending tax cuts nearing expiration. This duo could very well lay the groundwork for economic resurgence in the coming years.
Trump continues to fill roles in administration: NIH director, Navy secretary and morehttps://t.co/1JXqzhABa4 pic.twitter.com/1Q2FBcPmwv
— The Washington Times (@WashTimes) November 28, 2024
Meanwhile, the Department of Health and Human Services will have Jim O’Neill, an ally of Peter Thiel, in a significant position as Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s second-in-command. O’Neill’s credentials should align nicely with Trump’s health agenda. He may face some stiff scrutiny, given the political climate, but his ties to a major Republican benefactor demonstrate that his appointment carries the weight of conservative values.
Vince Haley rounds out the list, taking on the directorship of the Domestic Policy Council without the need for Senate confirmation. With experience as a speechwriter and a loyal Trump supporter, he is well-positioned to shape domestic policies that reflect the administration’s core beliefs. As each of these promising individuals steps into their roles, the Trump administration is gearing up to challenge the status quo and bring a fresh perspective to governing, sure to have liberals clutching their pearls in dismay.
