Energy, veterans affairs and SBA: Trump announces new Cabinet deputies ahead of second term in office

With only a few days remaining before his inauguration, President-elect Donald Trump has begun shaping the foundation of his administration, announcing key deputy appointments on Truth Social.

Among the selections unveiled on Saturday, Katharine MacGregor is set to serve as the next deputy secretary of the interior. Currently the vice president of environmental services at NextEra Energy, Inc, MacGregor is no stranger to this role, having held the same position during Trump’s first term. Trump lauded her contributions to achieving US “energy dominance” and her pivotal role in organising the “Salute to America” event.


David Fotouhi, a former acting general counsel at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), was named deputy administrator of the EPA. Trump highlighted Fotouhi’s legal expertise and commitment to clean air and water policies, alongside advancing America’s energy goals.

For deputy energy secretary, Trump selected James P Danly, a retired US Army officer and former chairman of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. Trump noted Danly’s regulatory reforms and dedication to ensuring affordable energy for Americans.

Paul R Lawrence was picked as deputy secretary of veterans affairs. Trump commended Lawrence for reducing the VA claims backlog during his first term and his efforts to modernise veterans’ benefits.


Additionally, Trump announced Casey B Mulligan, a professor from the University of Chicago, as the chief counsel for advocacy at the Small Business Administration. Trump lauded Mulligan’s expertise in economic policies that supported small businesses and fostered growth during his presidency.

Donald Trump's inauguration as the 47th president of the United States is set to take place on January 20, marking a peaceful transition of power from Joe Biden. Trump will return to the White House for a non-consecutive second term.