In a series of prominent appointments, U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has announced several high-profile picks for his upcoming administration, signalling an aggressive approach to immigration, border security, and national security. The appointments come as Trump prepares to re-enter the White House after securing 312 electoral votes in the 2024 election, defeating Democratic opponent Kamala Harris, who garnered 226 votes. Trump’s return to office marks the first time since Grover Cleveland that a U.S. president will serve non-consecutive terms.

Trump has named Tom Homan, the former acting director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) under his previous administration, to oversee the nation’s borders. In a post on Truth Social, Trump expressed confidence in Homan’s capabilities, stating, "There’s nobody better at policing and controlling our Borders." Referred to as the "Border Czar," Homan will be tasked with managing border security, including the Southern and Northern borders, as well as maritime and aviation security. Trump has committed to implementing the "largest deportation program in U.S. history," pledging to deport undocumented individuals and stating that Homan will lead the effort to return “Illegal Aliens back to their Country of Origin."

Homan, a career law enforcement officer, became known as the public face of Trump’s immigration policy, particularly for overseeing efforts that placed a record number of migrant children in custody. Previously, Homan had declared that ICE would apprehend undocumented individuals who came forward to care for these children, a stance that deviated from the policies of prior administrations.

Additionally, Trump has selected Florida Representative Mike Waltz, a former Army Green Beret, as his national security adviser. Waltz, a strong critic of China’s activities in the Asia-Pacific region, has voiced concerns about potential conflicts in the area, emphasising the need for a proactive U.S. defence stance. In past comments, he criticised the Biden administration’s approach to national security, particularly regarding the 2021 withdrawal from Afghanistan. Waltz has praised Trump’s foreign policy approach, calling Trump a “disruptor” needed in Washington.

Waltz is known for his advocacy of U.S.-India relations and has emphasised India’s role as a strategic partner in countering Chinese influence. He was a key figure in bipartisan legislation to streamline arms sales to India, and he has supported defence agreements that bolster India’s military capabilities. "India would make a strong ally," he stated, citing India’s nuclear power status and military strength.

Trump has also nominated Congresswoman Elise Stefanik, currently the House Republican Conference Chair, as the U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations. Calling her “an incredibly strong, tough, and smart America First fighter,” Trump highlighted Stefanik’s leadership qualities. First elected in 2014, Stefanik made history as the youngest woman elected to Congress. She has been a vocal supporter of Trump’s policies and has maintained a high profile in the Republican Party as a senior member.

In another significant move, Trump reportedly plans to nominate Sen Marco Rubio as the next U.S. Secretary of State. Rubio, a prominent conservative voice, is expected to bring an assertive stance on foreign policy to the role, according to The New York times and other media sources. Known for his strong views on China and human rights, Rubio has often advocated for an active American presence on the global stage and could shape U.S. diplomacy to be more confrontational with adversaries.

Trump’s second term is expected to focus on a robust U.S.-India partnership, with Waltz playing a key role. He has described India as an essential ally in deterring aggression from China and stabilising the region, especially in Afghanistan. "An alliance with India would help keep us safe in the 21st century," Waltz remarked, stressing the strategic importance of deepening ties. He has also cautioned India against its economic ties with Russia, encouraging a shift away from reliance on Russian oil.

These key appointments reflect Trump’s commitment to a hardline stance on immigration and national security, while also strengthening diplomatic and defence relations, especially with allies like India. His administration is poised to revisit many policies from his previous term, with an emphasis on border security, military readiness, and reshaping U.S. alliances globally.