The U.S. president’s cabinet is a cornerstone of the executive branch, serving as the president’s closest advisors and leaders of the federal government’s major departments and agencies. Established through historical precedent, the cabinet consists of the vice president and the heads of 15 executive departments. Here’s a closer look at their roles and responsibilities, and the people that Donald Trump has announced as his nominees to date for his second term. If no name is listed, that means no nominee has been announced as of November 20, 2024.

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Vice President of the United States

Vice President-elect J.D. Vance will serve as a key advisor to the President, preside over the Senate, and will be first in the presidential line of succession. While his duties can vary depending on the administration, vice presidents often take on diplomatic missions and lead special initiatives.

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Department Heads and Their Roles

Secretary of State

The Secretary of State oversees foreign policy, negotiates treaties, and manages diplomatic relations with other nations. They supervise the Department of State and embassies around the world. Florida Senator Marco Rubio will be Donald Trump’s nominee.

Secretary of the Treasury

Tasked with economic policy, the Secretary of the Treasury manages federal finances, oversees the IRS, and advises on monetary matters.

Secretary of Defense

The Secretary of Defense manages the U.S. Armed Forces and advises the President on national security and military operations. Fox News host and U.S. Army veteran Pete Hegseth will be Donald Trump’s nominee.

Attorney General (Department of Justice)

The Attorney General is the nation’s chief law enforcement officer, overseeing federal prosecutors, the FBI, and legal policy. They ensure the enforcement of federal laws and defend the U.S. government in legal matters. Former U.S. Representative Matt Gaetz (R-FL) will be Donald Trump’s nominee.

Secretary of the Interior

This position manages natural resources, public lands, and relations with Native American tribes. Responsibilities include overseeing national parks and wildlife conservation. North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum will be Donald Trump’s nominee.

Secretary of Agriculture

The Secretary of Agriculture supports farmers, oversees food safety programs, and implements policies for rural development and nutrition. 

Secretary of Commerce

Responsible for promoting economic growth, the Secretary of Commerce handles trade, technology development, and the Census Bureau. Wall Street executive Howard Lutnick will be Donald Trump’s nominee.

Secretary of Labor

The Secretary of Labor protects workers’ rights, oversees workplace safety, and administers employment statistics and benefits programs.

Secretary of Health and Human Services

This role includes oversight of public health initiatives, Medicare, Medicaid, and federal health agencies such as the CDC and FDA. Environmental lawyer and independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. will be Donald Trump’s nominee.

Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)

HUD focuses on urban development, affordable housing programs, and tackling homelessness.

Secretary of Transportation

The Secretary of Transportation oversees infrastructure projects, transportation safety, and the regulation of air, rail, and road systems. Former U.S. Representative Sean Duffy (R-WI) will be Donald Trump’s nominee.

Secretary of Energy

The Secretary of Energy manages energy policy, nuclear safety, and initiatives to develop sustainable energy resources. Fracking company executive Chris Wright will be Donald Trump’s nominee.

Secretary of Education

The Secretary of Education implements federal education policy, oversees student loans, and ensures access to quality education. Former WWE executive Linda McMahon will be Donald Trump’s nominee.

Secretary of Veterans Affairs

This role involves administering benefits for military veterans, including healthcare, pensions, and housing programs. Former U.S. Representative Doug Collins (R-GA) will be Donald Trump’s nominee.

Secretary of Homeland Security

The Secretary of Homeland Security is responsible for protecting the U.S. against terrorism, managing immigration, and responding to natural disasters. South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem will be Donald Trump’s nominee.

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Additional Cabinet-Level Positions

Certain other roles, though not department heads, are often considered part of the President’s inner circle, including:

Chief of Staff

Manages White House operations and staff. Trump named Susie Wiles, his campaign manager, to his staff, which will not require Senate confirmation.

Director of National Intelligence

Oversees intelligence agencies. Former U.S. Representative Tulsi Gabbard (D-HI) will be Donald Trump’s nominee.

U.S. Trade Representative

Handles international trade agreements.

Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

Enforces environmental laws and regulations. Former U.S. Representative Lee Zeldin (R-NY) will be Donald Trump’s nominee.

Administrator of the Small Business Administration (SBA)

Supports entrepreneurs and small businesses.

U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations

Represents the interests of the United States at the United Nations. U.S. Representative Elisa Stefanik (R-NY) will be Donald Trump’s nominee.

Director of the Central Intelligence Agency

Oversees human intelligence gathering efforts. Former U.S. Representative and former DNI John Ratcliffe (R-TX) will be Donald Trump’s nominee.

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