Trump names Musk to 'efficiency' post as team takes shape

Elon Musk emerged as a prominent supporter of Trump’s campaign, reportedly contributing over $100 million and frequently endorsing the Republican’s candidacy on X, the platform Musk owns. Trump announced that Musk and businessman Vivek Ramaswamy would spearhead a new “Department of Government Efficiency” (or "DOGE"), a humorous nod to an internet meme and cryptocurrency.

“These two remarkable Americans will help my Administration tackle government bloat, reduce unnecessary regulations, slash wasteful spending, and restructure federal agencies,” Trump said in a statement. He added that DOGE would serve as an external advisory, allowing Musk to avoid disclosing his financial interests.

Trump, 78, will return to Washington on Wednesday to meet with President Biden in the Oval Office. He may also visit the Capitol, where Republicans hold a slim Senate majority and are projected to retain House control. With his inauguration a little over two months away, Trump is moving swiftly to cement his comeback.

World leaders are closely observing his cabinet choices to gauge the new administration's adherence to his pledges for an isolationist foreign policy, tough immigration measures, and targeting political opponents.

Hardliners -
Trump appointed military veteran and Fox News personality Pete Hegseth as his defense secretary, promising a forceful stance against America’s adversaries. In other key roles, Trump nominated Florida Senator Marco Rubio for secretary of state, former intelligence chief John Ratcliffe for CIA director, and Congressman Mike Waltz, a known China hawk, as national security advisor.

South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem, the first governor to send National Guard troops to the Texas border, was named as homeland security secretary, tasked with overseeing Trump’s planned mass deportations. Immigration official Tom Homan was also appointed “border czar,” while Stephen Miller, known for drafting Trump’s initial "Muslim ban," will serve as deputy chief of staff.

On environmental policy, Trump tapped Lee Zeldin to head the EPA, intending to roll back regulations on climate and pollution. Elise Stefanik, a strong pro-Israel advocate, was nominated for UN ambassador, with former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee selected as ambassador to Israel.

Back to the Oval -
Biden’s invitation for an Oval Office meeting reinstates a long-standing presidential transition tradition, which Trump ignored after his 2020 defeat, choosing not to meet with Biden or attend his inauguration. Trump's final departure from the White House in January 2021 came amid internal backlash for his role in the Capitol attack. However, Trump’s reputation has since rebounded, bringing Republicans back to his side.

While many appointments require Senate approval, Trump is pushing for recess appointments to bypass confirmation hearings and consolidate his control over the federal government before taking office.