President-elect Donald Trump announced on Truth Social Saturday evening that two key figures from his previous administration, Nikki Haley and Mike Pompeo, would not be joining his upcoming administration. Trump’s decision removes the former U.N. Ambassador and Secretary of State from consideration, despite their prior involvement and recent public support for his 2024 campaign.
“I will not be inviting former Ambassador Nikki Haley, or former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, to join the Trump Administration, which is currently in formation,” Trump posted, leaving little room for interpretation. Though firm in his decision, Trump added, “I very much enjoyed and appreciated working with them previously, and would like to thank them for their service to our Country.” He ended the post with his iconic slogan, “MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!”
The announcement, while direct, was unexpected to some. Haley had recently expressed support for Trump in a Wall Street Journal op-ed, saying, “I don’t agree with Mr. Trump 100% of the time, but I do agree with him most of the time.” Haley’s nuanced support included critiques during the Republican primaries but emphasized alignment with Trump’s platform over current Democratic policies.
Pompeo, who previously served as both Secretary of State and CIA Director, has shown support for Trump through public endorsements. In an October open letter signed by over 400 national security officials, Pompeo wrote, “From a world at peace under President Trump, we are closer to a third world war than ever before under the Biden-Harris Administration,” highlighting his concerns over the current administration’s approach to foreign policy and national security.
With Trump’s second administration in development, these exclusions mark a shift in his inner circle. Former Georgia Senator Kelly Loeffler, for instance, will serve on Trump’s inaugural committee, indicating some fresh faces alongside familiar allies as Trump prepares for his next term.
Both Haley and Pompeo have yet to comment publicly on the announcement.
Sources:
- Truth Social. (2024). “Donald Trump announces administration selections.”
- Wall Street Journal. (2024). “Nikki Haley op-ed in support of Trump’s campaign.”
- Fox News Digital. (2024). “Trump excludes Haley and Pompeo from new administration.”
