Family ties in politics: Trump picks in-law for key Middle East adviser post

The new President of the United States, Donald Trump, has surely caused a lot of buzz and discussion following the appointment of Michael Boulos to a high-ranking position as a senior adviser on matters pertaining to Arab and Middle Eastern Affairs.

Who is Michael Boulos, the newly named advisor for Arab and Middle Eastern affairs?

Michael Boulos is from a very rich and powerful business family and will assume a major role in the Trump administration. Born in Lebanon, he was raised in Nigeria, where he has built strong ties in the Middle East through his family’s business dealings. His business background has him well-versed in economic matters, though critics say his lack of experience in diplomacy or government will be an impediment when navigating the very complex nature of Middle Eastern geopolitics.

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The role of the Senior Adviser for Middle Eastern and Arab Affairs

In this position, Boulos will be in charge of key relations between the U.S. and Arab countries, an assistant in coordinating economic ties, and an advisor on strategic security in the region. The job requires a deep knowledge of the geopolitical and cultural dynamics defining the Middle East.

Some view the various business relations of Boulos as something that could be useful and to their advantage in many ways, but there are also those who have misgivings and doubts about his capacity to deal with sensitive and fragile policy matters in this especially unstable and volatile part of the world.

Trump’s history of putting family members in key positions

The announced appointment is wholly in consonance with Donald Trump’s prevailing penchant for appointing family members to critical and influential offices within his administration. Previously, Jared Kushner, Ivanka Trump’s husband, played a very instrumental and key role in the creation of what is commonly referred to as the Abraham Accords, as well as in several other important economic accords negotiated during Donald Trump’s first term as president.

Detractors and critics have pointed out and raised questions concerning the fact that such appointments seem to base decisions on considerations of familial loyalty above qualifications and professional acumen, giving rise to certain qualms about possible transparency and effective governance issues in the political arena.

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What does Michael Boulos’ involvement mean for Trump’s expected term?

Trump’s tendency to place relatives in top advisory positions is expected to factor into how his leadership style is analyzed when he takes office. Proponents argue that it ensures the presence of trust and likemindedness with his vision, while opponents see it as a conflict of interest that could erode the legitimacy of institutions.

Boulos’ appointment may also have an impact on public opinion about Trump’s foreign policy and governance tactics in his coming term. All eyes will be on Boulos and other family-linked advisors as the Trump administration takes shape. Their policy influence, especially on the Middle East, will be closely followed as Trump readies himself officially to take office.