A recent survey by Rasmussen Reports indicates that a majority of likely voters believe President-elect Donald Trump should prioritize appointing Cabinet members he trusts over those with extensive experience in Washington, D.C. According to the survey, 71 percent of respondents view the Cabinet selections as crucially important. This sentiment is reflected consistently across political affiliations, with 70 percent of Democrats, 77 percent of Republicans, and 65 percent of independents acknowledging the significance of these appointments in shaping the executive branch.
When asked whether trust or experience should guide Trump’s Cabinet selections, 55 percent of likely voters expressed a preference for choosing individuals they trust. In contrast, 39 percent favored experienced candidates from Washington, while a mere 7 percent were uncertain. Notably, this inclination varies by party; 82 percent of Republicans and 53 percent of independents lean towards trust, while only 31 percent of Democrats resonate with this viewpoint. The majority of Democrats, specifically 61 percent, assert the necessity of experience in the Cabinet appointments, highlighting a clear partisan divide in perspective on leadership qualities.
The survey also highlighted a strong consensus that the Senate should confirm Trump’s Cabinet nominees, with 55 percent of respondents supporting this notion. Several key names have emerged for potential Cabinet positions, including Sen. Marco Rubio for Secretary of State, Pam Bondi as Attorney General, and Governor Kristi Noem for Secretary of Homeland Security. Other notable candidates include Pete Hegseth for Defense Secretary and Governor Doug Burgum for the Interior Secretary, as well as Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for Secretary of Health and Human Services. This broad list reflects Trump’s agenda and choice of individuals he deems fit for his administration.
The survey was conducted between November 20-21, 2024, and included responses from 1,266 likely U.S. voters, with a margin of error of plus or minus 3 percent. The timing of the survey allowed respondents to evaluate Trump’s Cabinet considerations in light of the political climate following his electoral victory. Voter priorities around trust versus experience highlight the expectations individuals have for Trump’s approach to governance during his upcoming term.
Rep. Wesley Hunt (R-TX) commented on the rapid selection of Cabinet members, suggesting that Trump understands the urgency of initiating his agenda swiftly upon taking office. Hunt emphasized the mandate given to Trump by the American public, asserting confidence in Trump’s ability to assemble a team capable of advancing the “America First” agenda. He remarked that lessons learned from Trump’s previous presidency underscore the necessity of making quick decisions and pushing through important policies without being stalled by political opposition.
Overall, the survey underscores a pivotal moment in American politics, with likely voters favoring a trusted inner circle over seasoned political insiders in Trump’s approach to governance. As the nation anticipates the new administration’s actions, the evolving dynamics of trust and experience in leadership will likely continue to shape public discourse and influence future political strategies. Trump’s ability to navigate these expectations effectively will be key in fulfilling his mandate and responding to the challenges that lie ahead for his presidency.