The formation of a presidential cabinet is a monumental task and reflects the incoming leader’s priorities and overall governing style. As the 45th President of the United States, Donald Trump’s cabinet was no exception. Armed with a mantra of Make America Great Again, he embarked on selecting the members who would assist him in accomplishing his ambitious agenda.
Secretary of State: Rex Tillerson
At the helm of foreign affairs was none other than the former CEO of ExxonMobil, Rex Tillerson, who served as the Secretary of State. Impressively, Tillerson’s professional tenure spanned over four decades. His acumen in global business power dynamics earned him his position, despite having no prior political experience. However, his tenure was short-lived, with Mike Pompeo replacing him in 2018.
Secretary of the Treasury: Steven Mnuchin
Trump engineered a financial team led by Steven Mnuchin, a former Goldman Sachs executive, as the Secretary of the Treasury. Mnuchin’s role focused on economic policy and financial legislation. Some of his notable accomplishments include playing a pivotal role in passing the 2017 tax reform bill and leading the U.S.’s economic response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Secretary of Defense: James Mattis
In the vital sphere of national security and defense, Trump chose James Mattis, a distinguished retired Marine Corps general known for his strategic capability and dedication. Mattis, fondly referred to as Mad Dog, was an instrumental figure in the war against ISIS. Mattis eventually resigned after policy disagreements with the President.
Attorney General: Jeff Sessions
Taking charge of the country’s legal affairs, Jeff Sessions was appointed as Attorney General initially. Sessions hails from Alabama and served as its senator for two decades. However, his tenure was marred by controversy over his recusal from the investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 US election.
Secretary of the Interior: Ryan Zinke
Steering the country’s public lands and natural resources was former Navy SEAL Ryan Zinke. As the Secretary of Interior, Zinke faced criticism for his stance on the controversial subject of public land usage. He resigned from his post in 2018 amidst ethics investigations around his official conduct.
Secretary of Agriculture: Sonny Perdue
To oversee farming and rural economic affairs, Trump chose former Georgia Governor, Sonny Perdue as his Secretary of Agriculture. Perdue successfully pushed programs to help rural America and safeguarded the farm sector amidst the U.S-China trade war. His tenure saw him implementing the President’s vision for an independent American agricultural system.
Secretary of Commerce: Wilbur Ross
Billionaire investor Wilbur Ross was chosen as the Secretary of Commerce. He championed Trump’s protectionist trade measures and sought to reinvigorate the American industry. Ross’s tenure saw an increase in tariffs and a consequential trade war with China.
The Trump cabinet was a blend of individuals hailing from various backgrounds. The distinct combination of entrepreneurial stalwarts, experienced politicians, and military strategists came together
