President Donald Trump is continuing to build his team for his second term, announcing three major appointments in a series of Truth Social posts on Monday.
Just two weeks into his presidency, Trump revealed that Michael Ellis will take on the role of deputy director at the CIA. Since this position doesn’t require Senate approval, Ellis will begin working under CIA Director John Ratcliffe immediately.
Trump praised Ellis as a skilled lawyer and a dedicated public servant, saying he would play a crucial role in “fixing the CIA” and restoring it to its former glory. He highlighted Ellis’s past work in his first administration, pointing out that he served on the White House National Security Council and played a role in exposing what Trump called the “unmasking” abuses by the Obama administration. Trump also noted that Ellis previously worked as General Counsel for the House Intelligence Committee under Rep. Devin Nunes and was later appointed to a top legal position at the National Security Agency before being removed under President Biden.
Read Also: Trump’s Bold Water Claim in California—What Really Happened?
In another announcement, Trump tapped Joe Kent to lead the National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC), an agency that helps track and respond to terrorist threats. Kent, a former Green Beret and CIA officer, has spent his career fighting terrorism.
Trump spoke highly of Kent’s dedication, particularly in light of his personal loss—his wife, Shannon, was killed while fighting ISIS. “Joe has spent his entire life taking down terrorists and criminals,” Trump wrote. “He knows the true cost of terrorism and will work to keep America safe from threats both overseas and here at home.”
The third appointment Trump revealed was Sean Parnell as the chief Pentagon spokesperson and assistant to the secretary of defense for public affairs. Parnell, a decorated combat veteran, led one of the most celebrated platoons in the Afghanistan War. Trump praised his bravery, noting that Parnell earned two Bronze Stars and a Purple Heart while his unit took down more than 350 enemy fighters.
Trump also credited Parnell with helping to pass the MISSION Act during his first term, which he called the “biggest VA reform in history.” He congratulated Parnell and his family, calling him a true American patriot.
With these appointments, Trump is clearly setting the tone for his second administration, prioritizing national security, military experience, and loyalty as he continues to shape his leadership team.
