As President-elect Donald Trump embarks on the formation of his second-term administration, the nomination process for his Cabinet is set to kick off in earnest. Starting today, January 14, 2025, the Senate will begin confirmation hearings for several of Trump’s Cabinet picks. These hearings are pivotal moments that give senators the chance to scrutinize each nominee’s qualifications and stance on critical issues. Several nominees have already held private meetings with senators, but now it’s time for them to face the full Senate committees.
Here’s a breakdown of the scheduled hearings for the week ahead, all in Eastern time.
Doug Collins, Department of Veterans Affairs
The first nomination on the docket is Doug Collins, former congressman from Georgia, who will appear before the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee. A former U.S. Navy chaplain and Air Force Reserve colonel, Collins has a background deeply rooted in service, making him a potential fit for leading the VA, which provides healthcare and services to veterans. With veterans’ issues always a key focus of public concern, Collins’ confirmation is likely to be watched closely.
Pete Hegseth, Department of Defense
Next up is Pete Hegseth, a former Fox News personality and Army National Guard combat veteran, who will face the Senate Armed Services Committee. Hegseth, tapped for Secretary of Defense, is expected to face tough questioning from senators about his fitness for the role. Despite his strong military credentials, Hegseth has faced scrutiny over past allegations of excessive drinking and sexual misconduct. The Secretary of Defense is responsible for overseeing the U.S. military, an authority second only to that of the president, making this a high-stakes hearing.
Doug Burgum, Interior Department
Doug Burgum, former governor of North Dakota, will appear before the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee to be questioned on his nomination to head the Department of the Interior. As the secretary overseeing public lands and national parks, Burgum would play a key role in Trump’s broader energy policy, including the president’s goal of achieving “energy dominance.” Burgum’s endorsement of Trump during the 2024 campaign solidifies his position, but his record as a businessman and politician may come under scrutiny.
Kristi Noem, Homeland Security Department
Governor Kristi Noem of South Dakota will appear before the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs to discuss her nomination for Secretary of Homeland Security. As one of Trump’s most vocal allies on immigration and border security, Noem is expected to be pressed on her plans to implement Trump’s pledge to secure the U.S.-Mexico border and lead a massive deportation effort. Noem’s leadership experience as both a governor and former congresswoman could play a pivotal role in shaping her potential confirmation.
Pam Bondi, Justice Department
Pam Bondi, former Florida attorney general, is scheduled for two appearances before the Senate Judiciary Committee. Bondi, who has long been a close ally of Trump, is being considered for the role of attorney general. Her nomination is likely to spark significant controversy, especially among Democrats, who may be concerned about her proximity to Trump and fears that she may prioritize political loyalty over justice. Bondi’s role in the Justice Department could have wide-ranging implications, particularly regarding the investigation into Trump’s dealings and his political agenda.
Sean Duffy, Transportation Department
Former Wisconsin congressman Sean Duffy is up next before the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee. Duffy, a former reality TV personality and co-host of Fox Business, is in line to take the reins at the Transportation Department. This agency is crucial in overseeing the nation’s infrastructure, including transportation systems, highways, railroads, and aviation. The transportation secretary’s role in addressing infrastructure needs will be critical as the country continues to deal with issues like crumbling roads and growing demand for greener transportation solutions.
John Ratcliffe, CIA
John Ratcliffe, former director of national intelligence under Trump, is slated to appear before the Senate Intelligence Committee for his confirmation hearing to lead the CIA. With the responsibility of overseeing the nation’s most sensitive intelligence operations, Ratcliffe’s confirmation is bound to draw significant attention. His tenure at the DNI was marked by controversy, and his ability to handle the high-pressure role of CIA director will be carefully evaluated by senators.
Marco Rubio, State Department
Florida Senator Marco Rubio is being considered for the position of Secretary of State. The Senate Foreign Relations Committee will host his confirmation hearing. As Secretary of State, Rubio would be responsible for conducting diplomacy, managing U.S. foreign relations, and providing advice on key diplomatic appointments. Given Rubio’s previous work in foreign policy and his long tenure in the Senate, his nomination is likely to be closely scrutinized by both supporters and detractors.
Chris Wright, Energy Department
Energy executive Chris Wright will appear before the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee to discuss his nomination to head the Department of Energy. Known for his strong opposition to climate change legislation, Wright’s views could spark heated debate, especially as the U.S. grapples with energy policy, climate change, and the future of fossil fuels. As Secretary of Energy, Wright would oversee the nation’s energy policies and nuclear weapons program.
Russell Vought, Office of Management and Budget
Russell Vought, the OMB director during Trump’s first term, is set to return to Capitol Hill for a hearing before the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee. As the head of the OMB, Vought was deeply involved in shaping Trump’s fiscal and regulatory policies. His past role in crafting Project 2025, a conservative agenda for Trump’s second term, will likely come under scrutiny, as senators question his approach to government spending and regulatory oversight.
Scott Turner, Housing and Urban Development Department
Former NFL player Scott Turner is scheduled to appear before the Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee to discuss his nomination as Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. Turner, who served as a leader of the White House Opportunity and Revitalization Council, is likely to face questions about how he plans to address the nation’s growing housing crisis and the needs of low-income communities.
Lee Zeldin, Environmental Protection Agency
Former congressman Lee Zeldin will appear before the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee for his confirmation hearing as head of the Environmental Protection Agency. Zeldin’s tenure in Congress has been marked by his skeptical stance on environmental regulation, and his nomination could be contentious as Democrats and environmental groups seek assurances that he will prioritize environmental protection.
Scott Bessent, Treasury Department
Finally, billionaire money manager Scott Bessent is scheduled to appear before the Senate Finance Committee for his confirmation as Treasury Secretary. If confirmed, Bessent would make history as the first openly LGBTQ Cabinet member in a Republican administration. The Treasury Secretary plays a key role in shaping the nation’s financial policy, managing public debt, and overseeing economic and tax issues.
Unconfirmed Hearings
Several key nominations have yet to be scheduled for hearings, including Lori Chavez-DeRemer for the Labor Department, Tulsi Gabbard for the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for the Department of Health and Human Services, among others. These hearings will likely be scheduled in the coming weeks as the confirmation process intensifies.
Bottomline
With these high-profile hearings beginning, the Senate’s scrutiny of Trump’s picks will shape the direction of his second-term administration. From veterans’ affairs to defense, energy, and foreign policy, the stakes for these nominees couldn’t be higher. The coming week promises to be just the beginning of a contentious and closely watched process. The Senate’s decisions will have long-lasting implications for the nation and its future under Trump’s leadership.