On January 20, 2025, President Donald J. Trump officially announced his acting Cabinet and Cabinet-level positions, marking the beginning of his new administration. This announcement, made pursuant to the Constitution and relevant U.S. laws, outlines the individuals who will perform the functions and duties of key government roles in an acting capacity until permanent appointments are confirmed. This blog delves into the newly appointed acting Cabinet members, their potential impact on U.S. policy, and what this means for the nation moving forward.

The Acting Cabinet: A Diverse Team of Leader

President Trump’s acting Cabinet comprises a mix of seasoned professionals, military leaders, and policy experts. Below is a breakdown of the key appointments and their potential roles in shaping the administration’s agenda:

1. Gary Washington – Acting Secretary of Agriculture

Gary Washington steps into the role of overseeing the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). His focus is expected to be on supporting American farmers, expanding agricultural exports, and ensuring food security. Given the challenges of climate change and global trade, Washington’s leadership will be critical in balancing sustainability with economic growth.

2. Jeremy Pelter – Acting Secretary of Commerce

Jeremy Pelter will lead the Department of Commerce, focusing on boosting economic growth, promoting innovation, and strengthening U.S. trade relations. With the global economy in flux, Pelter’s role in supporting small businesses and advancing technology will be pivotal.

3. Robert Salesses – Acting Secretary of Defense

Robert Salesses takes the helm at the Department of Defense, where his priorities will likely include modernizing the military, addressing global security threats, and ensuring the readiness of U.S. armed forces. His experience in defense strategy will be crucial in navigating complex international conflicts.

4. Denise Carter – Acting Secretary of Education

Denise Carter’s appointment as Acting Secretary of Education signals a focus on school choice, vocational training, and reducing federal oversight in education. Her leadership will shape the future of American education, particularly in addressing disparities in access and quality.

5. Dorothy Fink – Acting Secretary of Health and Human Services

Dorothy Fink will oversee the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), where her priorities may include healthcare reform, pandemic preparedness, and mental health services. Her role will be critical in addressing ongoing public health challenges.

6. Benjamine Huffman – Acting Secretary of Homeland Security

Benjamine Huffman’s leadership at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will focus on border security, cybersecurity, and disaster response. His appointment underscores the administration’s commitment to national security and immigration reform.

7. Lisa Kenna – Acting Secretary of State

Lisa Kenna steps into the role of Acting Secretary of State, where she will lead U.S. diplomatic efforts. Her priorities are expected to include strengthening alliances, addressing global conflicts, and advancing U.S. interests on the international stage.

8. David Lebryk – Acting Secretary of the Treasury

David Lebryk will oversee the Department of the Treasury, focusing on economic policy, tax reform, and financial regulation. His leadership will be instrumental in navigating the nation’s economic recovery and ensuring fiscal stability.

9. Judith Kaleta – Acting Secretary of Transportation

Judith Kaleta’s role as Acting Secretary of Transportation will involve modernizing infrastructure, improving transportation safety, and promoting sustainable transit solutions. Her work will be key to advancing the administration’s infrastructure agenda.

10. Todd Hunter – Acting Secretary of Veterans Affairs

Todd Hunter will lead the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), focusing on improving healthcare services, reducing wait times, and addressing the needs of veterans. His appointment reflects the administration’s commitment to supporting those who have served.

Key Cabinet-Level Appointments

In addition to the Cabinet, several key Cabinet-level positions have been filled with acting appointees:

• James Payne – Acting Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): Payne’s leadership will focus on balancing environmental protection with economic growth, particularly in areas like energy production and climate policy.
• Stacey Dixon – Acting Director of National Intelligence: Dixon will oversee the intelligence community, ensuring the nation’s security through timely and accurate intelligence gathering.
• Thomas Sylvester, Jr. – Acting Director of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA): Sylvester’s role will involve addressing global threats, counterterrorism, and intelligence operations.
• Janet Petro – Acting Administrator of NASA: Petro will lead the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, focusing on space exploration, scientific research, and technological innovation.

What This Means for the Nation

The appointment of these acting Cabinet members and key officials signals a continuation of President Trump’s policy priorities, including national security, economic growth, and limited government intervention. However, the acting nature of these appointments raises questions about the long-term stability and direction of the administration.

Key Areas to Watch:

1. Economic Policy: With David Lebryk at the Treasury and Jeremy Pelter at Commerce, the administration is poised to focus on tax reform, trade, and economic recovery.
2. National Security: The appointments of Robert Salesses, Benjamine Huffman, and Stacey Dixon highlight the administration’s emphasis on defense, border security, and intelligence.
3. Healthcare and Education: Denise Carter and Dorothy Fink will play critical roles in shaping healthcare and education policies, areas that remain deeply divisive.
4. Infrastructure and Environment: Judith Kaleta and James Payne will be instrumental in advancing infrastructure projects and environmental policies, balancing growth with sustainability.

The new Trump administration’s acting Cabinet and key appointments reflect a blend of experience and expertise across various sectors. As these leaders take on their roles, their actions will shape the nation’s trajectory in the coming years. While the acting nature of these appointments may raise questions, the administration’s focus on security, economic growth, and limited government intervention remains clear.

Stay tuned for updates on these appointments and their impact on U.S. policy. For more insights into the Trump administration and its initiatives, subscribe to our blog and follow us on social media.