The Road to Inauguration: Understanding the Presidential Transition and its Impact on Israel
An In-Depth Look at How Power Peacefully Changes Hands in the United States of America, and the President-Elect's New Team
At ICAN, understanding the U.S. presidential transition process, and anticipating policy changes, is crucial for staying effective in our work.
This guide aims to simplify what happens from Election Night to Inauguration Day, without the extra jargon.
We know that a new administration can bring shifts in policies that matter to our community, and being informed helps us adapt and and prepare to advocate effectively in support of our mission for a better America, a more secure Israel, and a stronger U.S.-Israel alliance.
This resource is designed to make sure we all understand what happens during the transition and why it matters for us.
From Election Night to Inauguration Day
From Election Night in early November to Inauguration Day on January 20th, the United States undergoes a structured process to transition power from the sitting president to the president-elect.
On Election Night, votes are cast and counted, but the official result requires the Electoral College to meet in December, where electors formally vote based on the election outcome. Once these votes are sent to Congress, the results are certified on January 6th in a joint congressional session.
During this transition period, the president-elect forms a team, selects key personnel, and receives important briefings, all to ensure they are prepared for office. Finally, on January 20th, the new president takes the Oath of Office during the inauguration ceremony, officially beginning their term.
Bonus Video: The Inauguration at the U.S. Capitol
Watch and learn more about the history and significance of the U.S. Presidential Inauguration—a pivotal moment that symbolizes the peaceful transfer of power.
Building the President-Elect’s New Team
One of the most important aspects of the presidential transition is selecting key appointments. The president-elect must choose individuals for crucial positions, including Cabinet members, advisors, and agency heads, who will help implement the administration's agenda.
These appointments are not just about filling roles; they shape the direction of U.S. policy for years to come.
Many of these positions require Senate confirmation, and the choices can send early signals about the incoming administration’s priorities, from foreign policy to domestic affairs.
For ICAN, understanding these key appointments can help us anticipate shifts in policies that directly affect our Israeli-American and pro-Israel American communities.
As President-Elect Trump begins to form his administration following the 2024 election, key appointments are being made to shape the direction of his upcoming term.
MARCO RUBIO
Secretary of State
Senator Marco Rubio of Florida is expected to be nominated. Serving in the Senate since 2011, Rubio has been a vocal advocate for strong U.S.-Israel relations. He has supported legislation aimed at enhancing Israel's security and has consistently opposed efforts to delegitimize the Israeli state.
PETE HEGSETH
Secretary of Defense
Pete Hegseth, a Fox News host and Army veteran, has been announced as the nominee. Hegseth served in the Army National Guard, with deployments to Guantanamo Bay and Iraq. His perspectives on Middle East policy, particularly regarding military aid and cooperation with Israel, will be crucial in shaping defense strategies affecting the region.
KRISTI NOEM
Secretary of Homeland Security
South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem is the leading candidate for this position. Noem has served as governor since 2019 and previously as a U.S. Representative. Her policies on immigration and security could impact Israeli-Americans, particularly regarding travel and security cooperation.
ELISE STEFANIK
U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations
Representative Elise Stefanik has been offered this role. Serving as a U.S. Representative since 2015, Stefanik has been a strong supporter of Israel, advocating for military aid and opposing the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement. Her stance on international policies will influence U.S. positions on Israel within the UN framework.
MICHAEL WALTZ
National Security Advisor
Representative Michael Waltz has been announced for this position. A former Green Beret and current U.S. Representative, Waltz has emphasized the importance of counterterrorism efforts and has supported measures to strengthen U.S.-Israel security cooperation. His perspectives on Middle East security are expected to shape U.S. foreign policy in the region.
LEE ZELDIN
Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency
Former Representative Lee Zeldin has been nominated. Zeldin, known for his support of Israel, has advocated for energy cooperation between the U.S. and Israel, particularly in natural gas and renewable energy. His role may influence environmental policies that intersect with U.S.-Israel collaborations.
STEVE WITKOFF
Special Envoy to the Middle East
Real estate investor Steve Witkoff has been appointed to this role. Witkoff's involvement may directly affect U.S.-Israel relations and peace initiatives, particularly in facilitating economic partnerships and diplomatic engagements.
ELON MUSK & VIVEK RAMASWAMY
Advisors for the Department of Government Efficiency
Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy have been announced as advisors. Their roles could influence technological collaborations and efficiency initiatives that may benefit U.S.-Israel partnerships, especially in sectors like technology and innovation.
MIKE HUCKABEE
Ambassador to Israel
Former Governor Mike Huckabee has been nominated for this position. Huckabee has been a longstanding supporter of Israel, frequently visiting the country and advocating for policies that strengthen U.S.-Israel relations. His appointment suggests a continuation of strong diplomatic relations.
Assessing the Potential Impact of the New Administration on ICAN’s Agenda
As the incoming administration prepares to address U.S.-Israel relations, we’re optimistic about the possibilities ahead for strengthening this special alliance.
One of the most promising signs is the administration’s anticipated "maximum pressure" campaign against Iran. This approach is expected to curb Tehran's nuclear ambitions and limit its influence in the region—critical priorities that align closely with ICAN’s commitment to security.
With Iran’s nuclear activities and support for terrorism posing serious threats to both the United States and Israel, we welcome robust sanctions that prevent Iran from expanding its capabilities and impact.
Equally exciting is the administration’s likely focus on broadening the Abraham Accords, which could bring Israel into normalized relations with even more Arab nations.
The incoming administration’s commitment to enhancing Israel’s security and standing in the region also reflects ICAN’s mission to deepen binational cooperation in defense, science, and technology. Extending these partnerships to include local governments unlocks even more opportunities for collaborative innovation and shared progress.
Together, these steps pave the way for an unprecedented strengthening of the U.S.-Israel relationship.
By addressing Iran’s nuclear threat, expanding the Abraham Accords, and bolstering bilateral ties, this new administration offers a opportunity for advancing peace and security for both nations. ICAN stands ready to support policies that enhance Israel’s security and the U.S.-Israel alliance, working towards a stable, prosperous future that reflects our shared values and goals
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