Donald Trump Jr. has emerged as a dominant force in shaping his father’s cabinet for what is being called the most controversial administration in U.S. history. Leveraging his loyalty to his father and an anti-establishment worldview, Don Jr. has championed candidates who reflect Trumpism, even at the expense of experience or broader appeal. Sources close to the process revealed that he played a decisive role in blocking establishment figures like Mike Pompeo and advocating for Senator JD Vance as Trump's running mate. While he is not officially part of the transition team, Don Jr.'s influence has been pivotal in determining which contenders rise or fall.
Among the most contentious of his recommendations are Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for U.S. health chief and Tulsi Gabbard for intelligence director. Kennedy, a vaccine skeptic, and Gabbard, a former congresswoman with controversial ties to authoritarian leaders, are likely to face stiff resistance in Senate confirmations. Despite these challenges, Don Jr. has prioritized loyalty and disruptive ideologies, reshaping the cabinet to reflect a brand of politics centered on economic protectionism and a reduced global footprint. Critics argue this approach prioritizes Trump family interests over national stability.
Although Don Jr. has achieved considerable sway, some of his choices have fallen short. His push for Ric Grenell, a loyal ally, as secretary of state was overridden by Trump’s decision to pick Senator Marco Rubio, whose more conventional stances appeal to moderate Republicans. Despite such setbacks, Don Jr. insists his goal is to surround his father with individuals who are both “competent and loyal.” Sources suggest that this time around, Trump is relying less on family advice than in previous administrations, with trusted aides like Susie Wiles leading the transition.
In contrast to 2016, Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner have taken a backseat. Kushner, who was instrumental in Trump’s Middle East policy during his first term, is providing informal support by preparing Steve Witkoff, Trump’s new special envoy, to expand the Abraham Accords. While Kushner and Ivanka are unlikely to join the new administration, insiders expect Kushner to play a quiet, unofficial role in regional diplomacy. Eric Trump, meanwhile, remains focused on running the family business, and the siblings’ reduced involvement has allowed Don Jr. to dominate the family’s political advisory role.
Trump’s transition team, praised for its discipline under Susie Wiles, reflects a stark contrast to the chaos of 2016. With fewer family members directly involved, Trump has opted for a more structured approach, relying on seasoned aides. Don Jr., however, has become the loudest advocate for the administration’s direction, reflecting his growing ambition and cementing his role as a key architect of Trumpism's future.
