President-elect Donald Trump is finalizing his Cabinet appointments, introducing key figures for civil rights, diplomacy, and veterans affairs as his inauguration day approaches.
At a Glance
- Trump announces Leo Terrell as Senior Counsel to the Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights
- Christine Toretti nominated as Ambassador to Sweden
- Retired Army Captain Sam Brown selected as Under Secretary for Memorial Affairs at Veterans Affairs
- Republicans set to control Senate 53-47, easing confirmation process
- 28 cabinet and agency head positions require Senate approval
Trump’s Cabinet Takes Shape
As President-elect Donald Trump prepares for his upcoming inauguration, he continues to announce key appointments to his cabinet. These nominations reflect a diverse array of professionals, including Wall Street executives, former congressional representatives, and television personalities, all poised to implement Trump’s agenda of raising tariffs, cutting spending, and enhancing U.S. energy dominance.
Among the notable appointments, Leo Terrell, a former Fox News contributor and civil rights attorney, has been nominated as Senior Counsel to the Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights at the Department of Justice. Terrell’s extensive background in civil rights law makes him a significant addition to the administration.
Diplomatic and Veterans Affairs Appointments
In a move to strengthen diplomatic ties, Trump has nominated Christine Toretti as Ambassador to Sweden. Toretti brings a wealth of experience as a businesswoman, philanthropist, and RNC Committeewoman, with a background in banking and various board memberships.
“Leo is a highly respected civil rights attorney and political analyst. He received his law degree from the University of California, Los Angeles, and has defended many high-profile cases throughout his incredibly successful career. Leo will be a fantastic advocate for the American People, and ensure we will, MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!” Trump said.
The appointment of retired Army Captain Sam Brown as Under Secretary for Memorial Affairs at the Department of Veterans Affairs underscores Trump’s commitment to veterans’ issues. Brown, a Purple Heart recipient and successful businessman, is expected to bring valuable insights to the role.
“Sam is an American HERO, a Purple Heart recipient, and successful businessman from Nevada, who has devoted his life to serving America,” Trump said.
The Confirmation Process
As the 119th Congress is sworn in, the Republican-controlled U.S. Senate is set to confirm President-elect Trump’s Cabinet nominees. Article II of the U.S. Constitution allows the President to appoint officials with the Senate’s “advice and consent.” With Republicans controlling 53 seats in the Senate, many of Trump’s nominees are expected to face a smoother confirmation process.
The confirmation process involves thorough vetting, including investigations by the FBI, IRS, Office of Government Ethics, and agency ethics officials. Senate committees, now with a Republican majority, will hold hearings for nominees based on their expertise. While some nominees, like Sen. Marco Rubio for Secretary of State, are expected to be easily confirmed, others may face more scrutiny.
