Television
Trump's Cabinet Picks from MTV and Fox News: A TV Takeover
2024-12-11
President-elect Donald Trump's second transition has seen him turn to the entertainment and media world to find loyal allies for his agenda. From a former Fox News host with a controversial on-set incident to a TV doctor with criticized medical claims, these picks offer a unique set of qualities.

Trump's Affinity for the Entertainment World

Long before his political career, Trump was a fixture in the New York tabloids. His campaign trail was marked by showy rallies and an embrace of unorthodox media outlets. He even judges the success of his events by TV ratings. During the vetting of potential running mates, he described the process as a "highly sophisticated version of The Apprentice."

Defense Department Pick: Pete Hegseth

Former Fox and Friends weekend host Pete Hegseth is tapped to lead the Department of Defense. As a former Army National Guard officer, he will manage a large number of troops and a significant budget. However, his lack of management experience is raising concerns. Despite allegations of sexual misconduct and mismanagement at veterans organizations, his television credentials, where he regularly assailed Democratic policies on defense and was a staunch Trump supporter, are seen as a major asset. His most notable moment on screen was when he threw an axe during a demonstration on Fox and Friends, hitting a drummer. The lawsuit resulting from this incident was resolved. Hegseth has been meeting with senators to bolster his nomination. Fox News has praised him as an exceptional host.

Transportation Secretary Pick: Sean Duffy

Former Wisconsin congressman Sean Duffy is nominated for the transportation secretary position. He gained fame on MTV's The Real World: Boston in the late 1990s for espousing conservative views and having a notable interaction with the cast's lone African-American female. Duffy most recently co-hosted The Bottom Line on Fox Business and appeared on Fox News.

Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Pick: Mehmet Oz

Popular celebrity doctor Mehmet Oz is chosen to lead the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. With no government experience, he drew attention from his appearances on Oprah Winfrey's television and his own show, The Dr. Oz Show. However, he has drawn criticism for unsubstantiated medical claims, including those related to astrology and weight-loss therapies. An episode on discredited practices aimed at changing sexual orientation drew fire from LGBTQ rights groups. Columbia University cut ties with him during his failed run for the US Senate in Pennsylvania.

Department of Housing and Urban Development Pick: Scott Turner

Former NFL player and veteran Scott Turner is selected to lead the Department of Housing and Urban Development. He played nine seasons in the NFL before serving in the Texas House of Representatives.

Department of Education Pick: Linda McMahon

The onetime CEO of World Wrestling Entertainment, Linda McMahon, is tapped to run the Department of Education. In the wrestling ring, she was involved in outlandish plotlines. Trump has a storied history with wrestling, including a "Battle of the Billionaires" storyline with Vince McMahon. Recently, a clip of her being bodyslammed by wrestling great Glenn Jacobs went viral. Trump surrounds himself with people who agree with him and are willing to support him.
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