With Donald Trump now confirmed of a return to the White House, political insiders are buzzing over the names that could shape his 2025 administration. A mix of loyalists, big personalities, and seasoned policy veterans are in the spotlight, vying for roles that will steer the country on issues ranging from defense to economic policy. Here’s a breakdown of the top contenders for some of the key posts – and why they’re getting noticed.

Treasury Secretary

Jamie Dimon, the current CEO of JPMorgan Chase, is a name that’s been floated, though his willingness to work under Trump remains questionable. Known for his critical stance on extensive federal regulations, Dimon could push for a deregulatory agenda if he joins the team. However, he has reportedly voiced a preference for Kamala Harris in the past and has expressed concerns about Trump’s actions related to January 6, which could complicate his potential role.

Scott Bessent, a hedge fund investor and Trump insider, is also high on the list. Unlike Dimon, Bessent has praised Trump’s economic strategies and shares a general wariness of international trade and regulations. A warm relationship with Trump bolsters his prospects.

Longtime Trump donor John Paulson, another financier, is also in the running. Paulson’s approach is in line with Trump’s pro-tariff stance, aiming to address what he sees as unfair trade practices. While he’s reportedly keen on the treasury role, his billionaire profile brings its own complexities.

National security

Richard Grenell, who served as Trump’s US ambassador to Germany and acting director of national intelligence, is a prime candidate for national security adviser – a role that doesn’t require Senate confirmation, which may be a strategic advantage. Grenell’s outspoken and sometimes abrasive style has sparked controversy, which might make Senate confirmation tricky for other posts.

However, Grenell’s loyalty and extensive foreign policy experience make him a strong contender for this high-stakes position.

Secretary of State

Robert O’Brien, who was Trump’s national security adviser late in his first term, is a frontrunner for secretary of state. Known for his connections with international leaders, O’Brien brings a more hawkish stance on issues like military aid to Ukraine. His influence could steer Trump’s foreign policy in a decidedly assertive direction.

Senator Bill Hagerty of Tennessee is also in the mix. A former US ambassador to Japan, Hagerty’s conservative views align closely with Trump’s, and he would likely sail through the Senate confirmation process. He has, however, shown less enthusiasm for aiding Ukraine, a position that aligns him more with Trump’s restrained approach to foreign involvement.

Florida’s Marco Rubio rounds out the secretary of state options. Known for his expertise on Latin American affairs, Rubio has longstanding party connections, though he remains more diplomatic than some of Trump’s loyalists.

Defense Secretary

Mike Waltz, a former Green Beret and current congressman from Florida, is widely regarded as a likely pick for defense secretary. Waltz has built his reputation on a firm stance against Chinese influence, particularly in critical minerals. His views resonate with Trump’s policies on national security and economic independence, adding weight to his candidacy.

Then there’s Mike Pompeo, Trump’s former CIA director and secretary of state. Pompeo’s history with Trump is complex—he considered a primary challenge before ultimately backing Trump. Known for his strong support of Ukraine, Pompeo’s appointment could signal a more assertive defense policy.

Tom Cotton, the senator from Arkansas, brings his own hawkish background and appeals to the more traditional wing of the GOP, with a focus on military assistance for Ukraine.

Homeland Security

For homeland security, Tom Homan is a strong choice. The former acting director of ICE under Trump, Homan was a vocal supporter of Trump’s strict immigration policies and remains a reliable advocate for the president’s hardline stance. Opponents saw this potential as a serious negative.

Chad Wolf, Trump’s former acting homeland security secretary, is another possible pick, though his resignation after the January 6 attack could complicate things. Wolf was criticised for some actions during the George Floyd protests but remains a known quantity in Trump’s inner circle.

Chief of Staff

Susie Wiles, Trump’s co-campaign manager, is the odds-on favourite for chief of staff, especially after he gave her strong plaudits during his victory speech. Known for her organizational skills and her ability to keep a campaign on track, Wiles might provide the disciplined approach that Trump’s previous White House often lacked.

Brooke Rollins, former director of Trump’s Domestic Policy Council, is also being considered, with a reputation as a more moderate voice who championed criminal justice reforms during Trump’s first term.

Attorney general

John Ratcliffe, former director of national intelligence and a staunch Trump ally, could take the lead as attorney general. Known for his partisan approach during his DNI tenure, Ratcliffe has often aligned with Trump’s worldview.

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Senator Mike Lee of Utah, a vocal supporter of Trump’s election-related challenges, is another contender for the attorney general role, given his deep legal background and Trump loyalty.

Timeline for Trump to appoint administration

Whether all these names ultimately land in Trump’s 2025 cabinet remains to be seen, of course. His picks will likely balance loyalty (previously a big factor), experience, and a capacity for navigating potential political turbulence in Washington.

Next up is December 17, when the Electoral College meets, then January 6 when it is certified and January 20 for Inauguration Day.