In a sweeping announcement of his key national security and diplomatic appointments, U.S. President-elect Donald Trump revealed on Tuesday that former Director of National Intelligence (DNI) John Ratcliffe will head the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) under his new administration. Trump also announced the selection of former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee as the next U.S. Ambassador to Israel, highlighting his long-standing support for Israel and his dedication to peace in the Middle East.
Trump’s appointments extend beyond the CIA and ambassadorship to Israel, with Congressman Mike Waltz named National Security Advisor and successful real estate investor Steven C. Witkoff tapped as Special Envoy to the Middle East. Additionally, Bill McGinley, Trump’s former White House Cabinet Secretary, will serve as White House Counsel, a key legal advisory role.
Ratcliffe Appointed to Lead the CIA
John Ratcliffe, who previously served as Director of National Intelligence in Trump’s first term, is widely known for his outspoken stance on several high-profile national security issues. He had played a significant role in exposing what Trump describes as political interference within the intelligence community. Trump praised Ratcliffe’s commitment to transparency and integrity, citing his efforts to expose the alleged politicisation within the FBI and intelligence circles.
“From exposing fake Russian collusion as a Clinton campaign operation to identifying the FBI’s misuse of the FISA Court, John Ratcliffe has been a warrior for truth and honesty with the American public,” Trump stated. “When 51 intelligence officials lied about Hunter Biden’s laptop, there was one man telling the truth to the American people: John Ratcliffe.”
Trump highlighted Ratcliffe’s dedication by reminding the public that he awarded Ratcliffe the National Security Medal in 2020, the nation’s highest honour for distinguished achievement in intelligence. Ratcliffe’s appointment is expected to reinforce Trump’s focus on combating politicisation within U.S. intelligence agencies, which Trump and Ratcliffe have argued can undermine trust in critical government institutions.
Huckabee Named Ambassador to Israel
In his choice for Ambassador to Israel, Trump has turned to Mike Huckabee, a well-known conservative figure, former governor of Arkansas, and staunch ally of Israel. Huckabee, 69, is no stranger to Middle Eastern politics and is deeply respected within conservative circles for his unwavering support of Israel.
“Mike has been a great public servant, governor, and leader in faith for many years,” Trump announced. “He loves Israel, and likewise, the people of Israel love him. Mike will work tirelessly to bring about peace in the Middle East.”
As ambassador, Huckabee will be tasked with strengthening U.S.-Israel relations and exploring diplomatic avenues for peace. His appointment signals a continuation of Trump’s pro-Israel stance, which included the controversial move of the U.S. Embassy to Jerusalem during Trump’s previous administration. Huckabee’s daughter, Sarah Sanders Huckabee, is currently the governor of Arkansas, continuing the family’s legacy of public service.
Congressman Mike Waltz as National Security Advisor
Trump’s pick for National Security Advisor, Congressman Mike Waltz, brings extensive military and national security expertise to the role. A retired Colonel and the first Green Beret elected to Congress, Waltz represents Florida’s Sixth Congressional District and has been a strong advocate for an assertive U.S. foreign policy. He serves on the House Armed Services Committee, House Foreign Affairs Committee, and the House Intelligence Committee.
Trump commended Waltz as “a nationally recognised leader in national security, an expert on the threats posed by China, Russia, Iran, and global terrorism.” Waltz has a 27-year military career that spans the U.S. Army and National Guard, and he is regarded as a leading voice on issues such as counterterrorism and foreign adversary relations.
Upon his appointment, Waltz expressed his deep honour at being entrusted by Trump to serve in this critical role, stating, “There is no higher calling than defending the nation’s values, freedoms, and the safety of every American.”
Witkoff as Special Envoy to the Middle East
Real estate magnate Steven C. Witkoff has been named Trump’s Special Envoy to the Middle East. A prominent philanthropist and businessman, Witkoff founded the real estate firm Witkoff in 1997 and has since led numerous major projects in the United States and abroad. His appointment is aimed at bolstering U.S. diplomatic efforts in the region, particularly in fostering economic development and peace-building initiatives.
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“Steve is a highly respected leader in business and philanthropy, who has made every project and community he has been involved with stronger and more prosperous,” Trump noted. Witkoff will be tasked with helping to stabilise the Middle East, a long-standing goal that has often proved elusive.
Bill McGinley as White House Counsel
In the legal sphere, Trump announced that Bill McGinley will return to the White House as Counsel. McGinley, who served as White House Cabinet Secretary during Trump’s first term, has been a significant legal voice in Trump’s circle, advising on election integrity as part of the Republican National Committee’s outside counsel.
“The White House Counsel plays a key role in vetting Supreme Court candidates and other high-level nominees,” Trump remarked, underscoring the importance of McGinley’s new position.
With these appointments, Trump’s incoming administration is shaping up to be a mix of experienced public servants, military veterans, and private-sector leaders. These picks underscore Trump’s commitment to a strong national security apparatus, a pro-Israel foreign policy, and efficiency within federal institutions. The success of these appointments will shape Trump’s second term and potentially leave a lasting impact on U.S. domestic and foreign policy.
