As US President-elect Donald Trump prepares to return to the White House in January, he is already preparing to select key members of his Cabinet. As the inauguration approaches, President-elect Trump has begun narrowing down potential candidates for crucial roles in his administration.

From economic advisers to foreign policy experts, here's a closer look at the people reportedly being considered for top positions in Trump's second term.

Treasury Secretary: John Paulson and Scott Bessent are being considered

The leading candidates for Treasury Secretary include billionaire hedge fund investor John Paulson and economic consultant Scott Bessent. Both have been important allies of Trump in the past. Paulson, known for his successful hedge fund investments, and Bessent, a former Wall Street executive and Trump fundraiser, are both considered potential candidates for Treasury secretary.

Foreign Minister: Marco Rubio or Richard Grenell

For the crucial role of secretary of state, Trump's team is reportedly targeting Florida Sen. Marco Rubio and Richard Grenell, the former acting director of national intelligence. Rubio's foreign policy experience and Grenell's track record as a vocal supporter of Trump's “America First” approach make them good candidates to oversee U.S. diplomatic efforts. Grenell, who previously served as U.S. ambassador to Germany, is seen as a possible contender for top foreign policy and national security posts in the new government.

Elon Musk: A Role for Government Efficiency?

Elon Musk, a longtime supporter of Donald Trump, has expressed interest in taking a role in government and potentially overseeing the regulators that govern him. Elon Musk had proposed the creation of a Department of Government Efficiency, a plan to dramatically cut the federal budget by at least $2 trillion after a formal review of federal agencies. Although this suggestion remains vague, it suggests that Musk could play a role behind the scenes in shaping Trump's second term.

Key foreign policy figures: Mike Pompeo and Richard Grenell

Former CIA director and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, a loyal ally of Donald Trump, has remained loyal to his ex-boss and is considered a key contender for a top job, possibly as secretary of state or defense. Pompeo, a strong supporter of Israel and critic of Iran, could play a crucial role in shaping Trump's foreign policy. Grenell, who has pushed for the establishment of an autonomous zone in eastern Ukraine to end the war there, could also be named for a high-profile role, whether in national security or foreign relations.

Justice Department: Senators Mike Lee and John Ratcliffe seek attorney general role

One of the most important appointments for Trump will be the selection of the new attorney general. Senator Mike Lee, Senator Eric Schmitt and John Ratcliffe, Trump's former director of national intelligence, are all reportedly in the race. Trump has previously expressed his intention to fire current Attorney General Jack Smith, effectively halting the Justice Department's ongoing criminal cases against him.

Secretary of Commerce: Linda McMahon's name is floating around

Former Small Business Administrator Linda McMahon's name has been mentioned as a possible Commerce Secretary in Donald Trump's second term. McMahon, who played a key role during Trump's first administration, is seen as a trusted ally and is well positioned to lead the department again.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr.: A Placeholder for Health and Other Key Positions

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the son of the assassinated Bobby Kennedy and nephew of JFK, attracted attention with his independent candidacy for president, at times even receiving up to 10% of the vote. After endorsing Trump, Kennedy reportedly expressed interest in a role in the new administration. Although Trump's campaign has ruled out a job for Kennedy at the Department of Health and Human Services, Trump himself has said he would give Kennedy free rein on issues such as women's health care, suggesting he may have a more unconventional role in the Cabinet.

Donald Trump Jr.: influence behind the scenes

While Donald Trump Jr. took a less prominent role on the campaign trail, he was actively involved behind the scenes in shaping his father's transition plans. As co-chair of the transition team alongside his brother Eric Trump, he played a key role in advising on new appointments. Additionally, Donald Trump Jr. has built a strong following among the MAGA base through his Triggered podcast and his advocacy for various political allies such as JD Vance.

Tom Cotton: A dark horse for the defense secretary

Senator Tom Cotton, a far-right Republican from Arkansas, had been discussed as a possible candidate to replace Trump even before JD Vance was nominated. Cotton is a likely candidate for defense secretary. Cotton, who enjoys strong support from Trump donors, is known for his tough stance on issues such as immigration and national security. He is best known for his controversial commentary on 2020 The New York Times They are calling for the use of military force against demonstrators of the Black Lives Matter movement.

Ben Carson: A Possible Choice for Housing and Urban Development

Ben Carson, the former neurosurgeon and U.S. housing secretary, has championed controversial measures including a nationwide ban on abortion. His views on abortion as well as his efforts to reform housing policy could make him a contender for the role of secretary of Housing and Urban Development in Trump's second term.

Scott Bessent and Robert Lighthizer: Economic Strategy and Trade

Scott Bessent, a prominent economic adviser and hedge fund manager, and Robert Lighthizer, Trump's former trade representative, are both considered strong candidates for economic posts in the new administration. Bessent has been a key ally of Trump and JD Vance and is praised for his pro-tariff stance, while Lighthizer, known for his leadership in the trade war with China, could return to his former role or be nominated for commerce secretary.

Brooke Rollins and Susie Wiles: candidates for chief of staff

Brooke Rollins, a former domestic policy adviser, and Susie Wiles, one of Trump's campaign managers, are both considered potential candidates for chief of staff. Rollins, who supported Trump's criminal justice reforms, is seen as a more moderate voice within the administration, while Wiles, known for her organizational skills, could bring more discipline to the White House next term.

Stephen Miller: A return to tougher immigration policies

Stephen Miller, one of the main architects of Donald Trump's controversial immigration policies, including the Muslim travel ban, is expected to return to government for a second term. As a senior policy adviser, Miller played a central role in Trump's plans for the largest deportation of illegal immigrants in U.S. history and continues to lead efforts to reshape American immigration policy.