Trump Expands Transition Team with Ex-Democrats Kennedy and Gabbard
Former President Trump adds Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Tulsi Gabbard to his transition team, showcasing cross-party support. The move comes as both former Democrats recently endorsed Trump's campaign.
In a strategic move to broaden his support base, Donald Trump has incorporated two former Democratic figures into his transition team. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Tulsi Gabbard, both of whom recently endorsed the former president, have been given key roles in preparation for a potential second Trump administration.
Brian Hughes, a senior adviser to the Trump campaign, confirmed the appointments, emphasizing the expansion of Trump's coalition across party lines. This development comes approximately two months before the November 2024 election, as Trump seeks to demonstrate appeal beyond traditional Republican circles.
The inclusion of Kennedy and Gabbard follows their recent endorsements of Trump's campaign. Kennedy, a member of the prominent Kennedy political family, ended his independent presidential bid on August 23, 2024, and publicly supported Trump at a rally near Phoenix, Arizona. Gabbard, who served as a U.S. Representative for Hawaii from 2013 to 2021, expressed her backing during a joint appearance with Trump in Detroit on August 26, 2024.
In an interview with former Fox News host Tucker Carlson, Kennedy revealed his involvement in policy discussions with Trump and his role in selecting potential government officials. This disclosure has drawn criticism from the Democratic National Committee, with advisor Mary Beth Cahill expressing concern over Kennedy's proximity to a possible second Trump administration.
The transition team, initially announced on August 16, 2024, is co-chaired by Wall Street executive Howard Lutnick and former Small Business Administration head Linda McMahon. Honorary co-chairs include Trump's running mate, Ohio Senator JD Vance, and Trump's sons, Donald Trump Jr. and Eric Trump.
This move by Trump mirrors efforts by the Democratic Party to showcase bipartisan support. The recent Democratic National Convention in Chicago featured speeches by former Republican representatives Adam Kinzinger and Geoff Duncan, highlighting a trend of cross-party endorsements in the current political landscape.
"We're working on policy issues together. I've been asked to come onto the transition team, to help pick the people who will be running the government."
As the election approaches, Trump's campaign continues to evolve its strategy. Gabbard is scheduled to join Trump for a campaign event in Wisconsin on August 29, 2024, further emphasizing the campaign's focus on crucial swing states.
The incorporation of Kennedy and Gabbard into Trump's team represents a significant shift in political alignments, reflecting the dynamic nature of American politics in the lead-up to the 2024 presidential election.
