Trump’s Bold New Picks: Musk, Ramaswamy, and a Cast of Unlikely Characters Join Powerhouse Administration

Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy to Head New “DOGE” Agency on Government Efficiency

As President-elect Donald Trump finalizes his Cabinet, he’s unveiled a lineup of bold and surprising choices aimed at bringing a fresh edge to his administration. From billionaire tech titans to media personalities, Trump’s choices underscore a clear message: the return of an “America First” agenda bolstered by innovation, fiscal rigor, and tough stances on national security.

A New DOGE in Washington
One of the most surprising additions is the formation of a new, non-cabinet agency, the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by billionaire Elon Musk and entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy. Known for his vocal support of cryptocurrency, Musk, with Ramaswamy at his side, will have an unprecedented mission: dismantling bureaucracy, streamlining federal agencies, and tackling waste. In a statement, Trump praised Musk and Ramaswamy as “two wonderful Americans” poised to “slash excess regulations” and “cut wasteful expenditures.”

In true Musk fashion, transparency is key. He announced on X (formerly Twitter) that the department’s findings would be available online in a “leaderboard for the most insanely dumb spending of your tax dollars.” It’s a populist twist that brings Musk’s daring corporate style into the heart of Washington’s budgeting—and sets the tone for what could be a groundbreaking approach to government efficiency.

From Fox News to the Pentagon
Perhaps equally surprising is Trump’s pick for Secretary of Defense: Pete Hegseth, a Fox News host with military experience. Known for his strong “America First” advocacy, Hegseth is expected to shake up the Department of Defense with a populist edge. Trump’s plans for a “warrior board” of retired senior military officers could shift the dynamics of leadership by reviewing top military officers’ performance and recommending the removal of those deemed unfit.

“Pete is tough, smart, and a true believer in America First,” Trump declared, pledging a military revamp under Hegseth’s watch that “America’s enemies are on notice.”

National Security Revamp with Waltz as Advisor
Florida Congressman Mike Waltz, a retired Green Beret, has been tapped as National Security Advisor, a post that gives him a direct line to the president. With his experience on Armed Services, Foreign Affairs, and Intelligence committees, Waltz will play a key role in navigating foreign conflicts, including ongoing tensions in Ukraine and the Middle East. Trump’s strategic focus? “Restoring deterrence” while “fostering transactional relationships with allies,” reflecting a shift toward prioritizing American interests and pragmatic diplomacy.

Ratcliffe, Rubio, and Noem: Trump’s Foreign Policy and Homeland Security Picks
For the CIA, Trump has selected John Ratcliffe, a former Director of National Intelligence. Ratcliffe, known for his vocal critiques of recent Middle Eastern policy, is positioned to steer intelligence with a sharper focus on transparency and accountability.

Meanwhile, Marco Rubio’s potential nomination as Secretary of State has captured widespread attention. As a seasoned senator and son of Cuban immigrants, Rubio’s hard-line stance on China, Iran, and Russia aligns with Trump’s commitment to recalibrate America’s global position. If confirmed, Rubio would be the first Latino to serve in the role, bringing both experience and historical significance to the position.

In Homeland Security, South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem is expected to bring her no-nonsense approach to border security, having deployed National Guard troops to assist at the U.S.-Mexico border in recent years. Known for her willingness to make “tough and ugly” decisions, Noem’s tenure is expected to see a heightened focus on border protection and immigration reform.

New York’s Elise Stefanik and ICE’s Tom Homan Round Out Trump’s Foreign Policy Team
Rounding out Trump’s new team, Congresswoman Elise Stefanik has been nominated as U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, promising a staunch defense of American values on the global stage. Meanwhile, Trump has created a “border czar” position for Tom Homan, former ICE director, to reinforce border security and streamline deportations.

As the Trump administration takes shape, these picks highlight a mix of unconventionality and purpose, targeting inefficiency and bureaucracy while pledging to put “America First.” With names like Musk, Ramaswamy, and Hegseth at the helm, Washington’s status quo could be set for a historic shakeup.