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President-elect Donald Trump is set to announce key appointments for his incoming administration, including Senator Marco Rubio as a potential Secretary of State, Representative Michael Waltz as National Security Adviser, and Governor Kristi Noem as Secretary of Homeland Security.
Digging into each:
Senator Marco Rubio: Rubio, a seasoned lawmaker with a reputation as a foreign policy “hawk,” is reportedly Trump’s pick for Secretary of State. Rubio currently serves as the vice-chair of the Senate Intelligence Committee and holds a position on the Foreign Relations Committee. Known for his hardline positions on China and Iran, Rubio has consistently advocated for policies that prioritize US security and global influence.

Rubio’s foreign policy experience and his Cuban-American heritage have contributed to his strong anti-communist stance, particularly towards China’s growing influence. Despite a historically rocky relationship with Trump — marked by sharp disagreements during the 2016 Republican primaries — Rubio endorsed Trump in 2024.
Congressman Michael Waltz: Waltz, a military veteran, is expected to be appointed Trump’s National Security Adviser. Waltz, a decorated Green Beret, has served multiple tours in Afghanistan, the Middle East, and Africa. Currently chairing the Armed Services Subcommittee on Readiness, he has been a vocal advocate for bolstering US military preparedness, especially in the Pacific, to counter potential threats from China.

His tough stance on China aligns closely with Trump’s priorities. Waltz’s appointment would not require Senate confirmation, allowing Trump to put Waltz to work immediately.
Governor Kristi Noem: Governor Noem of South Dakota is reportedly President-elect Donald Trump’s choice to lead the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), a role that aligns with her strong stance on immigration and border security. Although Noem has limited direct experience in national security, she has consistently supported Trump’s hardline immigration policies, including the 2017 travel ban from certain Muslim countries and the call for stricter refugee screenings.

As governor, she sent the South Dakota National Guard to the US-Mexico border and has made strong public statements against illegal immigration, positioning her as a staunch advocate for enhanced border security. At DHS, Noem would oversee a vast array of responsibilities, from counterterrorism and cybersecurity to emergency response and immigration enforcement, working alongside key Trump advisors like Stephen Miller and Tom Homan.