Republican senators are making a concerted push to confirm President Donald Trump’s cabinet nominees, with some ready to extend Senate proceedings through the weekend if necessary. Despite the urgency, progress has been slow, with only two key appointments — Secretary of State Marco Rubio and CIA Director John Ratcliffe — confirmed by Thursday afternoon.
However, a series of high-profile and contentious hearings are anticipated in the coming days. Among these, the nomination of Pete Hegseth for Defence Secretary has garnered significant attention amidst allegations and opposition.
Defence secretary: Pete hegseth
Hegseth’s nomination has been one of the most contentious, marked by allegations of sexual misconduct, alcohol abuse, and mismanagement of veterans’ organisations, all of which he has denied. A procedural hurdle was cleared on Thursday, paving the way for his confirmation vote, scheduled for Friday evening. Despite the controversy, Hegseth has faced opposition from only two Republican senators, Lisa Murkowski and Susan Collins. Given the GOP’s 53-seat Senate majority, his confirmation remains likely unless additional defections occur.
Treasury secretary: Scott bessent
Scott Bessent, founder of the macro hedge fund Key Square Group, is poised for a confirmation vote if the Senate remains in session this weekend. If confirmed, Bessent will play a crucial role in extending the 2017 tax cuts and shaping Trump’s economic policies in coordination with congressional Republicans.
Health and human services: Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is set to testify on January 29 and 30. Known for his controversial stance on vaccines, Kennedy’s hearing is expected to focus heavily on his criticisms of public health policies and his financial disclosures, including earnings from lawsuits filed against the agency he has been tapped to lead.
National intelligence: Tulsi gabbard
Tulsi Gabbard’s confirmation hearing, scheduled for January 30, is expected to delve into her 2017 meeting with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and her past comments that have been interpreted as sympathetic towards Russian President Vladimir Putin.
FBI director: kash patel
Kash Patel, Trump’s pick for FBI Director, has been one of the administration’s more polarising choices. Known for his vocal criticisms of the media and the so-called “Deep State,” Patel will face the Senate Judiciary Committee on January 30.
Homeland security: Kristi noem
South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem has cleared the Senate Homeland Security Committee with bipartisan support and is set for a full Senate vote. Noem will oversee Trump’s immigration policies, including his pledge for mass deportations of undocumented migrants.
Interior secretary: Doug Burgum
Doug Burgum, former North Dakota governor, has advanced through a Senate panel. His confirmation vote is expected next week. If confirmed, Burgum will also lead the newly established National Energy Council, influencing the administration’s oil and gas strategies.
Energy secretary: Chris wright
Chris Wright, CEO of a fracking services company, has cleared the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. His confirmation vote is likely to take place in the coming weeks.
Attorney general: Pam bondi
Pam Bondi, a staunch Trump ally, is slated for a confirmation vote after the Senate Judiciary Committee meets on January 29. Bondi’s nomination comes after Matt Gaetz withdrew amid allegations of sexual misconduct.
More Read
Other key positions
- Commerce secretary: Howard Lutnick will testify before the Senate Commerce Committee on January 29.
- Transportation secretary: Sean Duffy’s nomination has advanced and awaits a full Senate vote.
- Housing and urban development secretary: Scott Turner is set for a confirmation vote next week.
- Veterans affairs secretary: Doug Collins has cleared procedural hurdles for his confirmation vote.
- Agriculture secretary: Brooke Rollins testified before the Senate Agriculture Committee this week and is expected to proceed to a vote.
Awaiting hearings
Several nominees are still awaiting hearing dates, including Lori Chavez-DeRemer for Labour Secretary and Linda McMahon for Education Secretary.
Republican majority’s role
With a 53-seat majority, Senate Republicans hold a significant advantage in confirming Trump’s cabinet nominees. However, potential defections could complicate the process, particularly for controversial picks like Hegseth.
As hearings continue, Trump’s administration is racing against time to secure a functioning cabinet amid mounting opposition and scrutiny.
