Trump Unveils Major Appointments: Elon Musk, Pete Hegseth, and Vivek Ramaswamy to Lead New Initiatives

President-elect Donald Trump is already making waves with his new set of appointments, including some surprising choices that are raising eyebrows in Washington.

Trump names Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy leads of DOGE

Among the high-profile names, Trump has tapped tech billionaire Elon Musk to co-lead a newly formed Department of Government Efficiency, or "DOGE," alongside biotech investor Vivek Ramaswamy. The DOGE, despite its catchy acronym, is not a formal government department that requires congressional approval. Instead, it’s an advisory role focused on providing external guidance to the White House and the Office of Management and Budget. 

This arrangement allows Musk and Ramaswamy to maintain their private sector engagements, avoiding the typical Senate confirmation process and conflict-of-interest disclosures.

Musk and Ramaswamy have ambitious plans for their new roles. Musk has proposed cutting at least $2 trillion from federal spending and potentially eliminating hundreds of federal agencies he sees as redundant. Meanwhile, Ramaswamy’s past statements suggest he could advocate for mass layoffs within the federal workforce, potentially impacting several major departments.

These bold moves align with Trump’s campaign promises to slash federal spending and reduce the size of the government. However, such drastic changes are expected to face resistance from unions and other stakeholders who argue that these cuts could have far-reaching implications for public services.

Trump compared the initiative to the ambitious Manhattan Project during World War II, aiming for a leaner government by the country’s 250th Independence Day in 2026. "A smaller Government, with more efficiency and less bureaucracy, will be the perfect gift to America," Trump stated.

Musk and Ramaswamy react to announcement

Musk, who heavily supported Trump’s campaign with more than $119 million, was quick to celebrate the announcement, promising to "send shockwaves through the system." On his social media platform, X, Musk doubled down, saying, “Threat to democracy? Nope, threat to BUREAUCRACY!!!” 

Ramaswamy, who recently endorsed Trump after dropping out of his own presidential bid, echoed the sentiment, pledging that they "will not go gently" in their efforts to dismantle bureaucratic bloat.

Trump picks Fox News host Pete Hegseth for Secretary of Defence

In another significant appointment, Trump has named Pete Hegseth, a Fox News host and Iraq War veteran, as his pick for Secretary of Defense. Known for his outspoken conservative views, Hegseth has been a vocal critic of what he calls “woke” military policies. In a podcast interview, he argued for a return to merit-based standards and pledged to prioritise combat readiness if confirmed.

“Everything about men and women serving together makes the situation more complicated,” Hegseth said recently, suggesting that allowing women in combat roles weakens military effectiveness. 

The decision, however, has sparked some criticism given Hegseth's lack of experience in government. Critics have also expressed concerns over his controversial views, especially as he takes on the responsibility of overseeing the world’s most powerful military.

Trump Cabinet picks continue

Trump’s series of appointments also includes John Ratcliffe, former Director of National Intelligence, returning to lead the CIA, and Kristi Noem as Secretary of Homeland Security. The list is rounded out with other key figures like Senator Marco Rubio, who is reportedly lined up for Secretary of State, though this appointment hasn’t been finalised.

Trump's announcements come amidst a broader effort to solidify his incoming administration. With Republicans regaining control of the Senate, Trump's appointees like Hegseth will require Senate confirmation. However, Trump has made it clear that he expects Senate leadership to fast-track his picks, emphasising that he wants his team in place quickly to start delivering on his campaign promises.

As Trump’s team begins to take shape, the focus is now on how these unconventional choices will translate into policy changes. The next few months will be crucial in determining whether this mix of private-sector expertise and military toughness can deliver the efficiency Trump has promised.