As his second inauguration approaches, former President Trump has revealed his choices for several crucial deputy positions within his cabinet. The announcements, made via Truth Social, highlight individuals with prior experience in his administration and expertise in their respective fields.
Katharine MacGregor has been named as the incoming deputy secretary of the interior, a role she previously held during Trump's first term. Trump emphasized her contributions to energy policy and her involvement in the "Salute to America" event. Currently Vice President of Environmental Services at NextEra Energy, Inc., MacGregor's return suggests a continued focus on energy dominance.
For the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), David Fotouhi has been tapped as the next deputy administrator. Having served as Acting General Counsel at the EPA during Trump's first term, Fotouhi, now a Partner at Gibson, Dunn, & Crutcher LLP, will collaborate with EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin on pro-growth policies and environmental protection initiatives.
James P. Danly, a retired U.S. Army officer with a Bronze Star and Purple Heart, has been selected as the next U.S. deputy secretary of energy. His prior experience as General Counsel, Commissioner, and Chairman of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission during Trump's first term, coupled with his legal background from Yale and Vanderbilt, positions him to address energy affordability and availability.
Paul R. Lawrence, who served as VA Under Secretary of Benefits in Trump's first term, returns as the next deputy secretary of veteran affairs. Trump highlighted Lawrence's role in improving the GI Bill, modernizing appeals processes, and reducing the claims backlog. He will work alongside VA Secretary Doug Collins to prioritize veteran care.
Finally, Casey B. Mulligan, a University of Chicago professor and former Chief Economist of the Council of Economic Advisers, has been appointed chief counsel for advocacy at the U.S. Small Business Administration. Trump praised Mulligan's expertise in regulations affecting small businesses and anticipates his collaboration with SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler to reduce regulatory burdens and foster small business growth.
