Donald Trump Jr. Takes Leading Role in Shaping Controversial Cabinet, Ivanka and Jared Take Backseat
Donald Trump Jr. has emerged as the key advisor in helping his father, President-elect Donald Trump, assemble a Cabinet described as one of the most controversial in modern U.S. history. In contrast to his sister Ivanka Trump and brother-in-law Jared Kushner’s prominent roles in Trump’s first term, the pair have taken a step back from politics, focusing on personal ventures instead.
Sources close to the transition team say Trump Jr. is advocating for loyalists and anti-establishment candidates while sidelining traditional Republican picks. Among his controversial recommendations are Senator J.D. Vance as Vice President, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for Health Secretary, and Tulsi Gabbard as Director of National Intelligence. These selections align with Trump Jr.’s push for figures who share his father’s anti-globalist and protectionist views, but they are expected to face fierce Senate confirmation battles.
Ivanka and Jared: A Different Role This Time
Unlike in 2016, Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner are playing minimal roles in the transition. Jared, who was instrumental in brokering the Abraham Accords, is now briefing new special envoy Steve Witkoff on Middle Eastern policy, signaling an unofficial advisory role. Sources confirm that neither Ivanka nor Jared plans to join the new administration.
Focus on Family Shifts
Eric Trump, who runs the Trump Organization, is also staying out of day-to-day politics. This leaves Donald Trump Jr. as the most prominent Trump family member shaping the new administration, signaling a pivot in the president-elect’s reliance on family advisors.
A Disciplined Transition
Trump Jr.’s influence in the transition is bolstered by the more disciplined approach of the team, led by Chief of Staff Susie Wiles. Insiders describe the process as more organized than in 2016, with Trump Jr. balancing loyalty and competency in his recommendations.
“We actually know what we’re doing this time,” Trump Jr. said in a recent interview, adding, “It’s about surrounding my father with people who are both competent and loyal.”
As the Cabinet takes shape, the transition team is gearing up for challenges in Senate confirmations while emphasizing a vision for a more streamlined and focused administration.