Trump Appoints Acting Leaders for Federal Agencies as Cabinet Confirmations Begin
President Trump has named 31 acting officials to temporarily lead government agencies while awaiting Senate confirmation of his permanent nominees.
- President Trump has appointed 31 acting leaders across federal agencies to ensure continuity as his second term begins.
- Lisa Kenna will serve briefly as acting secretary of state, with Marco Rubio expected to be confirmed for the role imminently.
- Robert Salesses, a decorated Marine Corps veteran, is acting defense secretary while Pete Hegseth awaits a Senate vote despite controversy surrounding his nomination.
- James McHenry has been named acting attorney general, filling the role as Pam Bondi progresses through the confirmation process.
- Several of Trump’s permanent nominees, including Tulsi Gabbard for director of national intelligence and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for health and human services, face contentious confirmation battles.