President-elect Donald Trump has wasted no time in making critical staffing decisions for his new administration, selecting key loyalists for pivotal roles just days after his election win. The moves highlight his intention to reshape federal operations and potentially bypass traditional Senate confirmations.
Among the new appointees, 78-year-old Trump announced over the weekend that Tom Homan, a staunch immigration official, would serve as “border czar.” Additionally, US media sources revealed plans to nominate New York congresswoman and vocal Trump ally Elise Stefanik as UN ambassador.
Trump also tapped Stephen Miller, known for his strong stance against illegal immigration and a key player in his first administration, for the role of deputy chief of staff. The appointments reflect Trump’s focus on fulfilling his campaign promises on immigration reform and international diplomacy.
Homan’s new role will see him lead efforts to enforce Trump’s hardline approach to border security and deportation. Homan, who previously served as acting director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), is a trusted ally in executing the president-elect’s proposed large-scale deportation plans. Trump took to Truth Social to praise Homan, stating, “I’ve known Tom for a long time, and there is nobody better at policing and controlling our Borders. He will be in charge of all Deportation of Illegal Aliens back to their Country of Origin.”
Meanwhile, Stefanik’s selection as the nominee for UN ambassador positions her as the face of Trump’s foreign policy at a critical moment when conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon dominate international diplomacy. A vocal defender of Israel, Stefanik’s confirmation would require Senate approval, though Trump is reportedly seeking to utilize recess appointments to bypass Congress—a move he has made a litmus test for Republican Senate leadership hopefuls.
Three senators vying for leadership positions have already expressed either support or willingness to consider Trump’s push for recess appointments.
In a separate move, Trump previously named his campaign manager Susie Wiles as White House chief of staff, a role not subject to Senate confirmation. Together with his weekend announcements, the appointments suggest that Trump is rapidly laying the groundwork to implement his agenda once he assumes office in January.
Israeli officials have voiced their approval of Stefanik’s nomination, with Israel’s UN ambassador Danny Danon stating on X, “At a time when hate and lies fill the halls of the UN, your unwavering moral clarity is needed more than ever. Success in standing firm for truth and justice.”
