Transition Team Assemble: Republicans React to Trump Picks

November 11, 2024 Transition Team Assemble: Republicans React to Trump Picks  image

Key Takeaways

  • Republicans are reacting to recently announced Trump picks, discussing potentials for the new administration.
  • MAGA voters positively mention names like Rick Scott, Tom Homan, Elise Stefanik, Stephen Miller, and Susie Wiles.
  • The base is adamant about an administration full of “America First” loyalists, decrying RINOs and making their priority list known. 

Our Methodology

Demographics

Republicans

Sample Size

18,000

Geographical Breakdown

National

Time Period

1 Day

MIG Reports leverages EyesOver technology, employing Advanced AI for precise analysis. This ensures unparalleled precision, setting a new standard. Find out more about the unique data pull for this article. 

Rumors and reports are beginning to swirl about Trump’s transition team and incoming cabinet appointments. Republican voters and influencers are already voicing strong reactions to potential picks.

MIG Reports data shows a mix of hope and skepticism about Trump’s second term. MAGA Republicans voice support for an “America First” agenda and frustration with establishment influences.

Appointment Discussions

As discussions and announcement ramp up, Republicans are reacting to various names attached to cabinet positions.

Sen. Rick Scott

Florida Senator Rick Scott is discussed as a favorite for Senate Majority Leader. MAGA voters view him as a strong ally for advancing Trump’s legislative priorities in Congress, as opposed to Sen. John Thune or Sen. John Cornyn, who many strongly associate with establishment Republicans.

Tom Homan

As the former acting ICE director, Tom Homan is a widely anticipated choice for “Border Czar,” tasked with overseeing immigration enforcement. His reputation for tough immigration policies aligns well with Trump’s strict border stance. Many are discussing his appointment as important for national security and border integrity.

Rep. Elise Stefanik

Known for her strong pro-Israel stance and strong MAGA alignment, New York Rep. Stefanik gains favor among conservatives as Trump's pick for U.N. Ambassador. Her stance on foreign policy aligns closely with Trump's vision of robust U.S. leadership abroad.

Stephen Miller

As an architect of Trump’s initial immigration policies, Stephen Miller’s influence on Trump's hardline stance is unmistakable. Recent reports naming him as Trump’s deputy chief of staff for policy generate positive discussion among MAGA voters. His reentry is a strong indication that Trump aims to revive the rigorous policies of his first term.

Elon Musk

Many conservatives view Elon Musk as a positive influence in Trump's administration, particularly in tech, energy independence, and government efficiency. Musk’s outspoken positions on free speech and resistance to regulatory constraints align with Trump’s anti-bureaucratic vision. Trump and Elons’ public discussions about a Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), generates excitement in the base.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

RFK Jr. has gained some traction among conservatives for his skepticism of government health policies. His anti-establishment views resonate with Trump’s base, and many anticipate his involvement in the administration to push the MAHA movement.

America First Agenda

Supporters expect Trump’s team to double down on "America First,” particularly regarding border security, economic protectionism, and domestic deregulation. MAGA backers see these choices as necessary to address long-standing grievances, from the woke policies they say erode traditional values to rectifying illegal immigration.

Symbolic Wins and Quick Changes

Following Trump’s election, reports are beginning to flow on early victories, such as:

  • Migrant caravans reportedly being dismantled at the southern border, reflecting hopes for a stricter immigration policy.
  • Key figures from Trump’s first administration, like ICE veteran Tom Homan as “Border Czar,” being appointed to address the border.
  • International relations being shored up swiftly and imminently in places like Ukraine and the Middle East.
  • A sharp rise in the stock market and crypto, which many Republicans attribute to market confidence in Trump’s policies.

These developments heighten anticipation among GOP voters for quick, decisive policy shifts under Trump’s new team.

Distrust of the GOP Establishment

While Trump loyalists express enthusiasm, there is also clear distrust toward what Republicans label the “establishment” wing of the party.

Opposition to RINOs

Many Republicans are wary of RINOs being involved in the administration, mentioning Senators John Thune and John Cornyn by name. Voters see them as potential obstacles to the agenda they envision. Establishment figures are perceived as out of touch with Trump’s grassroots supporters, and many express relief at Trump’s announcement that neither Mike Pompeo nor Nikki Haley will be involved in the administration.

Republican voters express frustration with GOP leaders willing to work with Democrats on issues like immigration reform. This sentiment reinforces calls for an “all-in” approach that prioritizes conservative values over bipartisan solutions.

MAGA Appointments

GOP voices are increasingly rallying around figures like Senator Rick Scott for Senate Majority Leader and other MAGA names being floated for various positions. Some also mention Kash Patel for CIA Director, saying he would be integral to challenging the deep state.

The “America First” segment of Republicans celebrate Susie Wiles being named Trump’s Chief of Staff, hoping Trump’s second term will finally “drain the swamp.”

A Vision for the Administration

Within discussions of Trump’s new administration and position appointments, Republicans are talking about top-priority issues.

  • Strict Immigration: Voters want immediate action on mass deportations, completion of the border wall, and robust enforcement measures.
  • An “America First” Economy: MAGA supports reinstating tariffs, limiting foreign dependencies, deregulating industries, and fostering domestic energy independence to strengthen the U.S. economy and create jobs.
  • Combating Woke Culture: Conservatives are adamant about fighting back against progressive social policies, particularly related to gender and education. They expect appointees to uphold the people’s vote to kill woke ideology.
  • Ending Federal Bureaucracy: Voters want Trump to dismantle the deep state, especially in intelligence, law enforcement, corrupt courts, and healthcare agencies.
  • Strengthening Alliances: There is a focus on pro-Israel foreign policy, reasserting U.S. interests abroad, and settling foreign conflict.
  • Cutting Federal Spending: Voters want to prioritize fiscal conservatism through spending cuts, reduced taxes, and targeting wasteful government programs that burden taxpayers.

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