WASHINGTON — President-elect Donald Trump on Thursday made his first cabinet appointment following his decisive victory, setting the tone for his incoming administration by talking with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Susie Wiles, Trump’s campaign manager, has been appointed as White House chief of staff, making her the first woman to hold the high-profile role.
Trump’s victory over Democrat Kamala Harris has already sparked waves in U.S. and global politics, with Trump’s win confirmed just two days after Election Day. Speaking from Moscow, Putin commended Trump as “courageous” for his conduct during a campaign rally where he survived an assassination attempt in July. Putin indicated he was “ready” to open discussions with the new administration, suggesting a potential thaw in relations that had cooled following Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
While Trump confirmed he had not yet spoken with Putin, he expressed confidence that they would talk soon. This shift marks a contrast with current President Joe Biden, who has maintained a firm stance on U.S. support for Ukraine.
Trump has signaled a possible shift in U.S. policy on Ukraine, proposing a peace deal, though Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky voiced concern on Wednesday, warning that a ceasefire might be “dangerous.” Meanwhile, Chinese President Xi Jinping joined foreign leaders congratulating Trump, whose campaign faced criticism from Harris for his perceived alliances with autocratic leaders.
In an interview with NBC News, Trump emphasized his commitment to mass deportations of undocumented migrants, declaring, “There can be no price tag that’s too much.” He also indicated plans for a sweeping overhaul of immigration policy.
While Trump prepares for his second term at his Florida resort, Biden has pledged an “orderly” transition of power. In a televised address, Biden, 81, called for national unity and urged Americans to “bring down the temperature,” offering an invitation to Trump to meet at the White House.
As Democrats regroup, internal criticisms have surfaced over Biden’s decision to run for a second term, which he later reversed in July by endorsing Harris, his vice president, as the Democratic candidate. Despite this, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre defended Biden’s decision.
Trump’s victory, despite legal controversies, including a criminal conviction for fraud and two impeachments, reflects voters’ desire for change, according to analysts. At 78, Trump is the oldest person to win a U.S. presidential election.
With the first cabinet position filled, Trump’s team hints at more controversial appointments. Wiles, a widely respected figure within the Trump campaign, has garnered strong support. “Susie will continue to work tirelessly to Make America Great Again,” Trump said, praising the 67-year-old Floridian.
Among possible figures in the administration, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., an outspoken critic of vaccines, may take on a health-related role, according to sources. Kennedy assured that “I’m not going to take away anybody’s vaccines” but suggested removing fluoride from public water, a position U.S. health officials oppose.
Elon Musk, the billionaire CEO of SpaceX and Tesla, is reportedly a candidate for an oversight role, following his endorsement of Trump’s platform. Trump’s plans include rolling back key Biden-era policies, with an emphasis on “draining the swamp” and reshaping federal governance in his return to the White House.
“…though Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky voiced concern on Wednesday, warning that a ceasefire might be ‘dangerous.'”
Ceasefires are “dangerous” but continuing the massive slaughter that leads nowhere is okay.
I think I get it now…