Mick Mulvaney, the former chief of staff to the White House, offered his insights on President-elect Trump’s transition process and potential Cabinet picks. Speaking on Thursday, Mulvaney stressed the critical importance of choosing individuals who are loyal to Trump’s vision and objectives.
According to Mulvaney, loyalty should go beyond blind allegiance and instead reflect a shared commitment to the president’s agenda and goals, ensuring that team members prioritize Trump’s interests over any other external allegiances.
He also pointed out that loyalty in cabinet selections is not a new concept, noting that former President Barack Obama similarly surrounded himself with loyalists. “It’s essential to have a Cabinet that is aligned with the president because those are the people who advise him closest,” Mulvaney remarked.
Former allies Linda McMahon and Howard Lutnick join Trump’s leadership team
Following Trump’s victory in the 2024 election against Vice President Harris, the focus shifted to selecting individuals for key administrative roles. In August, Trump introduced his leadership team, which included former Small Business Administration chief Linda McMahon and businessman Howard Lutnick. His vice president, Senator JD Vance from Ohio, and his sons, Eric and Donald Trump Jr., also played pivotal roles within the team.
Trump has already appointed Susie Wiles as his chief of staff, making history as the first woman to assume the position. Wiles, a key figure in Florida politics, had been instrumental in Trump’s campaign efforts over the past two years.
In a conversation with Joe Rogan last month, Trump reflected on his first term and admitted that one of his biggest regrets was hiring “disloyal” individuals to serve in his administration.
This comment came after criticism from former Joint Chiefs of Staff Chair Gen. Mark Milley and former chief of staff John Kelly, who had made scathing remarks about Trump, including calling him a “fascist” and claiming he admired Nazi-era generals for their loyalty.
Trump’s first term was marked by frequent changes in his chief of staff position, with four different individuals holding the role: Reince Priebus, John Kelly, Mick Mulvaney, and Mark Meadows.
Mulvaney pointed out that Obama experienced a similar turnover in this role, while President Biden has managed to maintain only two chiefs of staff during his administration. Reflecting on the position, Mulvaney described it as both rewarding and challenging.
He expressed strong confidence in Wiles’ ability to succeed in the role. “Everyone I’ve spoken to from the campaign and transition team has nothing but positive things to say about her,” Mulvaney commented. “They all believe she’s perfectly suited for the position.”
