Former President Donald Trump has enlisted Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and former Representative Tulsi Gabbard (Hawaii) to join his transition team, following their recent endorsements. This move marks an outstanding expansion of Trump’s coalition across party lines.
Brian Hughes, a senior adviser to Trump’s campaign, expressed enthusiasm about the new appointments. “As President Trump’s coalition continues to grow across political divides, we are excited to have Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Tulsi Gabbard on board the Trump/Vance Transition team,” Hughes said. “Their influential voices will be instrumental as we strive to restore America’s greatness.”
Gabbard and Kennedy’s new roles in Trump’s transition team signal a broadening of his political base
The New York Times first reported Kennedy’s and Gabbard’s new roles on the transition team. Kennedy hinted at his new position in a recent interview with Tucker Carlson, stating, “I’ve been invited to join the transition team to assist in selecting those who will govern, and I’m eager to contribute.”
Kennedy, who recently suspended his independent presidential campaign and endorsed Trump, is expected to bolster Trump’s support in key battleground states where Kennedy had previously drawn away votes. Gabbard, who departed the Democratic Party in 2022 and has become a remarkable figure in conservative circles, endorsed Trump on Monday and is aiding his preparations for an upcoming debate with Vice President Kamala Harris scheduled for September 10.
Earlier this month, Trump announced the leadership of his transition team, which will prepare for potential staffing and policy decisions if he wins the election. The team will be led by Linda McMahon, a former head of the Small Business Administration under Trump, and Howard Lutnick, CEO of Cantor Fitzgerald. Trump’s running mate, Senator JD Vance (R-Ohio), along with Trump’s eldest sons, Eric and Donald Trump Jr., will serve as honorary chairs.
