Donald Trump has appointed Tulsi Gabbard and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to his transition team just days after they both endorsed his 2024 presidential campaign. Gabbard, a former congresswoman and military veteran, previously sought the Democratic nomination in 2020 before distancing herself from the party. Kennedy initially aimed for the Democratic nomination as well but later switched to an independent run before endorsing Trump.
In response, over 200 Republicans who served in previous administrations have supported Trump’s competitor, Kamala Harris. These former staffers of past Republican leaders, including George H.W. Bush and Mitt Romney, expressed concerns in an open letter, stating that another Trump presidency would jeopardize American democracy.
The Trump campaign announced that Gabbard and Kennedy would act as honorary co-chairs for the transition team, joined by Trump’s sons and running mate JD Vance. Transition teams play a critical role in organizing the incoming administration’s appointments and priorities. Senior advisor Brian Hughes pointed out that the endorsements signify a growing bipartisan appeal for Trump’s campaign.
During a recent event in Michigan, Trump publicly welcomed Gabbard to the stage. Gabbard, who represented Hawaii in Congress from 2013 to 2021 and left the Democratic Party in 2022 due to concerns about the party’s direction, has consistently criticized the Biden administration. She discussed the tragic suicide bombing at Kabul’s airport in August 2021, which resulted in the deaths of U.S. service members and many Afghans, using this moment to appeal to voters to unite behind Trump.
Gabbard’s political journey has evolved from the progressive left to conservative positions, particularly on issues such as abortion and transgender rights. She has gained notoriety for her frequent appearances on Fox News and has faced accusations of spreading Russian propaganda. Recently, speculation arose about her potential candidacy as Trump’s running mate, although that role eventually went to Vance.
Kennedy also ended his independent campaign on Friday and publicly endorsed Trump at a rally in Arizona, despite having been criticized by Trump in the past. Both Gabbard and Kennedy share a commitment to environmental issues, although Trump has emphasized increasing fossil fuel production at his rallies. Democrats quickly dismissed their endorsements, arguing that Trump is focusing on extremists rather than gaining broad support from ordinary Americans.