Trump’s Cabinet Choices Spark Outrage, Called ‘Nightmare Fuel’

Alarm spread among progressive circles on Monday due to President-elect Donald Trump’s initial selections for his administration, including a border chief known for enforcing family separations during Trump’s first term. There are also new accusations that Trump’s 2024 transition team is violating legal protocols by not signing a mandatory ethics agreement.

As of this Monday, Trump has appointed, or plans to soon announce, these key officials:

Elise Stefanik as United Nations Ambassador

Trump announced his nomination of Elise Stefanik, a loyal Republican congresswoman from New York, to serve as the U.S. ambassador to the United Nations. Stefanik has staunchly defended Israel amidst its trial at the International Court of Justice over accusations of genocide related to actions in Gaza.

Stefanik has also advocated for cutting funds to the U.N. Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East, citing unverified claims that the agency supports Hamas and was involved in the October 7 attack.

According to AIPAC Tracker, Stefanik has received over $900,000 from the American Israel Public Affairs Committee and supports their push for unconditional U.S. military support for Israel.

“While other nations appoint experienced diplomats, the U.S. sends representatives approved by AIPAC who blatantly support Israel. This time, it’s a particularly harsh, bigoted, right-wing choice,” commented Craig Mokhiber, a former U.N. human rights lawyer who resigned last year in protest of the U.N.’s failure to address what he termed a clear case of genocide in Gaza.

Mokhiber also described Stefanik as “an appropriate symbol of America’s diminishing influence globally.”

Jad Melki, a professor at Lebanese American University, ironically thanked Trump for his clear stance on Israel’s actions in Palestine and Lebanon, condemning it as supportive of genocide.

While not a Cabinet position, Trump is expected to appoint Brian Hook, known as a strong advocate against Iran who led Trump’s aggressive sanctions and covert operations during his first term, to head his State Department transition team.

Lee Zeldin as Environmental Protection Agency Administrator

Lee Zeldin, a former Republican congressman from New York with a poor environmental record, scored only 14% by the League of Conservation Voters. He is anticipated to roll back Biden’s climate policies and has been a consistent supporter of the fossil fuel sector, receiving significant campaign donations. Zeldin favors expanding fracking and offshore drilling.

“Zeldin is likely to reverse any environmental progress and exacerbate climate change more than any previous administrator,” said David Arkush of Public Citizen’s climate program.

Trump and Zeldin have promised to cut regulations while claiming to protect air and water quality, a statement met with skepticism from environmentalists.

Senator Ed Markey expressed that Zeldin’s main role would be to benefit corporate polluters at the expense of environmental safeguards.

Tom Homan as Border Czar

Trump has chosen Tom Homan, former director of ICE and enforcer of the zero-tolerance policy that led to family separations, as his border policy advisor—a position that does not require Senate confirmation.

In a recent Fox News interview, Homan issued a stern warning to Democratic governors and sanctuary cities that oppose cooperating with the planned mass deportations.

“If you’re not going to help, move aside,” he stated, indicating potential increases in ICE activity in non-cooperative areas like New York City.

Despite ongoing issues with reuniting separated families, Homan asserted at a Conservative Political Action Conference that the harsh tactics were effective.

Trump has hinted he might reinstate these controversial policies if deemed necessary in his second term.

Representative Delia Ramirez criticized Homan’s appointment as a clear signal of Trump’s commitment to widespread deportations.

Susie Wiles for White House Chief of Staff

Susie Wiles, a seasoned GOP strategist and Trump’s campaign manager since 2021, has been chosen as White House Chief of Staff. Wiles has previously lobbied for the tobacco industry and represents major pharmaceutical and processed food companies, raising conflict of interest concerns given Trump’s health policy goals.

Stephen Miller as Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy

Reports indicate that Stephen Miller, a senior advisor in Trump’s first term known for his hardline immigration policies and involvement in the controversial family separation policy, will be appointed as Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy.

Vice President-elect JD Vance praised the selection, while critics reminded the public of Miller’s role in crafting the rhetoric that led to the January 6 Capitol insurrection.

As Trump’s team continues to form, there is notable concern over the lack of signed ethics agreements, required to prevent conflicts of interest, with Elizabeth Warren pointing out the legal implications of such omissions.

Lisa Gilbert of Public Citizen emphasized the importance of being prepared to challenge potential abuses of power, reflecting on successful efforts to remove problematic Cabinet members during Trump’s first term.