Trump's appointments of Mike Waltz and Elise Stefanik reflect a shift towards a more hawkish foreign policy, aligning with the neoconservative agenda rather than the anti-interventionist stance that some of his supporters expected.
Marco Rubio's appointment as Secretary of State signifies a continuation of aggressive foreign policy, particularly against China and Iran, and indicates a potential return to neoconservative strategies that were prevalent before Trump's first term.
Pete Hegseth's appointment as Secretary of Defense, given his hawkish views on Ukraine and Israel, contradicts the 'America First' policy by prioritizing aggressive foreign interventions and alliances with foreign powers over domestic concerns.
Tulsi Gabbard's appointment as Director of National Intelligence provides a counterbalance to the hawkish appointments, potentially signaling a more nuanced approach to foreign policy, though her own shift towards more establishment views complicates her role as a true anti-interventionist voice.
Trump's cabinet appointments, particularly those of hawkish figures like Marco Rubio and Elise Stefanik, suggest a strong alignment with donors like Miriam Adelson, who have a vested interest in maintaining aggressive foreign policies, particularly in support of Israel.
Die-hard MAGAs who were hoping Donald Trump would demonstrate his anti-war bona fides through his cabinet selections have come in for a rude awakening. Key positions have gone to devoted war hawks Mike Waltz and Elise Stefanik, as well as Trump’s intention to install notoriously bellicose neocon Florida Senator Marco Rubio as Secretary of State. TJDS guest hosts Russell Dobular and Keaton Weiss discuss the push and pull already emerging in Trump world between warmongers and the anti-interventionist voters who helped put Trump in office. Plus segments on other key appointments, including Fox News host Pete Hegseth to head the Defense Department and Tulsi Gabbard as Director of National Intelligence. Also featuring Mike MacRae. And a phone call from Joe Biden!