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Power players:

Trump’s team and views on China

By and Published Jan 14, 2025

US presidents rely on advisers, Cabinet members and other senior officials to carry out their policy goals. Here’s a look at Donald Trump’s chosen team and what the appointment of these individuals could mean for China - the world’s second largest economy and America’s major competitor.

POWER SHOWCASE
Click categories and photos
In line of succession
Senate approval required
Political background
Part of previous Trump administration
Military background
Business background
Media background
Billionaires
Stance on China and engagement

CABINET
The most senior officials in an administration, Cabinet secretaries are meant to play a critical role in shaping national policy.

WHITE HOUSE
Includes presidential advisers who work in the White House West Wing and oversee the day-to-day operations of the executive branch.

OTHER KEY POSITIONS
Influential figures outside the Cabinet and White House, such as agency directors and ambassadors.
GUIDE TO TRUMP’S PICKS

In line of succession
The presidential line of succession determines who assumes the powers and duties of the presidency in the event of death, resignation, removal or incapacitation of the president or vice-president. It begins with the vice-president, followed by the US House speaker, as defined by the US Constitution and federal law. It then includes members of the Cabinet in a specific order, starting with the secretary of state.

Senate approval required
Appointments that require confirmation by the US Senate. These positions include Cabinet secretaries, agency heads, and other high-level roles.

Political background
Individuals who previously served as elected members of the US House of Representatives, Senate or state politics, including governorships.

Part of previous Trump administration
People who had roles during Trump’s first term would bring institutional knowledge and continuity.

Military background
Prior military service would be seen as bringing leadership, strategic thinking and national security expertise to Trump’s team.

Business background
These powerful figures, some of them associates of businessman Trump, are expected to play outsize roles.

Media background
Former reality show star Trump is an avid consumer and critic of American media. Some of his administration picks have been regular fixtures on television, appearing as commentators, personalities or talking heads in both news and entertainment shows.

Billionaires
Wealth and status have earned these very high-net-worth individuals a special place in Trump’s inner circle, including the world's richest man.

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Who is out of Team Trump?

Trump's first term (2017-2021) was marked by frequent departures of high-ranking officials. His second term could follow a similar pattern. Here’s who has exited the team so far.

Associate Creative Director Marcelo Duhalde
Additional Web development Yi Zhe Ang
Edited by Andrew London

Sources: NORC at the University of Chicago, Pew Research Centre, South China Morning Post archives, Associated Press

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