As President-elect Donald Trump prepares to take office next year, he is already at the centre of a fierce political battle, having nominated several controversial figures for key cabinet positions. From a vaccine sceptic to a former Fox News host, Trump’s picks have raised eyebrows across both political aisles and prompted heated debates about their qualifications. These nominations are not only stirring the pot in Washington but can potentially affect U.S. relations with South Africa significantly.
Let’s take a closer look at who’s in and what it means for the U.S. and for us in South Africa.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr: Health and Human Services secretary
Donald Trump’s decision to nominate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for the position of Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) has raised a lot of eyebrows, especially when it comes to his views on vaccines. Kennedy, the son of the late Senator Robert F. Kennedy and nephew of President John F. Kennedy, is known for being an outspoken critic of vaccines. He’s made headlines over the years with his controversial stance, even calling the Covid-19 vaccine “the deadliest vaccine ever made.”
If Kennedy were to take the reins at HHS, he would be in charge of a massive $1.8 trillion budget and oversee important areas like public health policy, drug regulation, and responses to infectious diseases. But here’s the issue – his scepticism about vaccines has many experts worried. In a world still grappling with the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, his views on vaccines could potentially harm efforts to protect public health.
For South Africans, this is an interesting situation to watch, as it could have wider global implications. The role of the HHS Secretary in the US is incredibly influential, and having someone with such controversial views at the helm could shape how health policies evolve, not just in the US but globally.
Pete Hegseth: Defense Secretary
Pete Hegseth’s nomination for U.S. Defence Secretary has generated significant attention, given his unconventional background. A Fox News host and military veteran, Hegseth has never held political office, making his appointment an unorthodox choice. However, his strong advocacy for veterans and conservative views on military culture has made him a key figure in Trump’s cabinet plans, especially as conflicts like Ukraine and Gaza continue.
Hegseth has spent years promoting a conservative shift in the U.S. military, criticising diversity and inclusion policies, and calling for the firing of senior military leaders involved in what he calls “woke” initiatives tied to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Recently, Hegseth has made headlines for his remarks about women in combat roles, arguing that it has not made the military “more lethal”.
How this plays out in the Senate confirmation hearings—and what it means for U.S. defence policy in the coming years—will likely have far-reaching consequences. After all, it is still by far the biggest defence spender in the world. That has implications for all of us.
Mike Huckabee: US Ambassador to Israel
Mike Huckabee, former governor of Arkansas and a well-known conservative figure, has been nominated as the U.S. Ambassador to Israel. This is a significant role, especially given Huckabee’s long-standing support for Israel. He has often been outspoken in his commitment to bolstering U.S.-Israel relations, which could mean a more unwavering pro-Israel stance from the U.S. forward.
For South Africa, Huckabee’s appointment may bring some diplomatic challenges, as the country has typically taken a critical position on Israel, especially regarding its policies towards Palestinians. With Huckabee in the role, South Africa might find itself navigating a more difficult relationship with the U.S., especially when it comes to the ongoing debate over Israel’s actions in the region. His nomination could push the U.S. to take a firmer stance in support of Israel, which may not align with South Africa’s current foreign policy.
Chris Wright: Secretary of Energy
Chris Wright, the CEO of a natural gas company, has been nominated by Donald Trump as the next U.S. Secretary of Energy. Known for his scepticism about the scientific consensus on climate change, Wright has consistently downplayed the need for urgent action to reduce carbon emissions. He has advocated for policies prioritising fossil fuel production, particularly natural gas, over renewable energy sources.
If confirmed, Wright is likely to push for policies that promote fossil fuel production, further sidelining efforts to combat climate change. This could have global implications, especially for countries like South Africa, which is working to transition to renewable energy as part of its climate commitments.
Mike Waltz: National Security Advisor
Mike Waltz, who’s been nominated as the U.S. National Security Adviser, brings a reputation for being tough on China and a strong military background. His approach to national security is likely to bolster U.S. military strength and counter what he sees as growing threats from both China and Russia. This could end up creating some tension for South Africa, which has been working hard to balance its relationships with the U.S. on one hand and China on the other.
South Africa’s role in BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) makes this balancing act even more complex. As a member of BRICS, South Africa has solid political and economic ties with China and Russia. If Waltz pushes the U.S. into a more confrontational stance toward these countries, South Africa could find itself in a tricky spot. It has a lot to gain from its relationships with its BRICS partners, especially China, which is a major trading partner. At the same time, South Africa is committed to a non-aligned foreign policy, meaning it doesn’t want to be caught in the middle of rising tensions between the U.S. and its BRICS allies.
Adding to the concern, In March, Waltz was one of 36 members of the House Foreign Affairs Committee to vote for legislation calling for a “comprehensive review” of U.S.-South Africa relations. The bill criticised the ANC’s foreign policy, including South Africa’s historical ties with Palestine. The friction threatens bilateral ties, including South Africa’s continued participation in the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) duty-free access programme, which is up for review next year.
Emma is a freshly graduated Journalist from Stellenbosch University, who also holds an Honours in history. She joined the explain team, eager to provide thorough and truthful information and connect with her generation.
