Staff Reports
As Inauguration Day approaches, President-elect Donald Trump is reinforcing his Cabinet, especially in the Defense Department, making headlines with a strategic lineup of military picks that brings a fresh wave of optimism for conservative voters. The latest selections might leave some on the left scratching their heads but are being heralded as a return to strength and stability — qualities that have been sorely missed in recent years.
Among the notable picks is billionaire Stephen Feinberg, who will fill the role of Deputy Secretary of Defense. The fact that Trump chose someone with an impressive business background should excite anyone who believes the Pentagon could use a little capitalist magic. Feinberg, the brains behind Cerberus Capital Management and a seasoned member of Trump’s previous administration, reportedly plans to bring savvy deal-making to the Department of Defense. The Trump administration’s agenda of “Making the Pentagon Great Again” appears to be alive and well under his stewardship.
.@ajtata: The good news is, President Trump has picked Pete Hegseth to come into DOD, Governor Noem into DHS, Kash Patel in the FBI, and Tulsi Gabbard into the intel community. Great picks that will restore trust, faith, and confidence in the way these agencies operate and focus… pic.twitter.com/hWdkMDM6aw
— Erica Knight (@_EricaKnight) December 12, 2024
In the policy arena, Elbridge Colby, dubbed “Bridge” (because, apparently, that’s a thing), steps in as the Under Secretary of Defense for Policy. Colby has a well-documented history of advocating for the America First approach in foreign affairs. Conservative audiences can breathe a sigh of relief knowing he was part of the Pentagon’s efforts to fortify military strategy during Trump’s first term. Colby’s Ivy League credentials are just the cherry on top of the sundae of qualifications, as he plans to work closely with the incoming Secretary of Defense, Pete Hegseth, to restore military power through the mantra of “Peace Through Strength.”
Michael Duffey will take on the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment role. This is a position that resonates deeply with those who recognize the importance of efficient spending in government. Duffey’s past experience makes him a natural fit, having championed the needs of warfighters and taxpayers alike during his prior stints in the Administration. Trump’s promise that Duffey will revitalize the Defense Industrial Base is likely music to the ears of those who have felt the Pentagon has been more of a bloated bureaucracy than a lean fighting machine.
Technical prowess also comes into play with Emil Michael, the former Uber heavyweight, stepping in as Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering. In a world increasingly reliant on advanced technology, Michael’s experience is crucial. His task will be to ensure that U.S. forces are equipped with the most sophisticated weapons available — all while being mindful of the bill another round of military innovation could rack up for taxpayers.
Lastly, the position for Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health Affairs goes to Keith Bass, who promises to have the troops’ health as a top priority. With substantial medical experience and a military background, Bass appears well-suited to ensure that those serving the nation get the care they deserve, unlike the haunting tales of healthcare woes faced under previous administrations.
The appointment of Joe Kasper as the Chief of Staff for the Secretary of Defense closes out this impressive array of go-getters. His hands-on experience within the DOD suggests he will be a key player in guiding the incoming Secretary through what promises to be a busy agenda ahead. With these bold moves, the Trump administration is clearly signaling to the world that the United States is ready to reclaim its position as a military powerhouse, much to the delight of its conservative base.
