Donald Trump is back in the spotlight, and in true Trump fashion, he’s making waves before even stepping foot back in the White House.
On Tuesday night, the president-elect took to his favorite platform—social media—to announce a pair of high-profile ambassadorial picks, Herschel Walker and Nicole McGraw. Oh, and he also sent a not-so-subtle shot across the bow to Senate Republicans, just in case anyone thought he’d be softening his edges this time around. Spoiler alert: he’s not.
First up, Herschel Walker. Trump tapped the former NFL star and longtime ally to serve as U.S. ambassador to the Bahamas. Some might roll their eyes at the idea of a Heisman Trophy winner turned diplomat, but let’s not forget Walker’s accomplishments off the field. Philanthropy? Check. Advocacy for mental health and military service members? Double check.
Walker’s tenure as co-chair of Trump’s Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition shows that he’s no stranger to working with Uncle Sam. Trump didn’t mince words in his endorsement, declaring, “You will always put AMERICA FIRST!” Say what you will, but loyalty matters in the Trump World, and Walker has proven himself time and again.
🚨BREAKING: Donald Trump nominates Herschel Walker as United States Ambassador to the Bahamas. pic.twitter.com/bKdz4b5NFy
— Benny Johnson (@bennyjohnson) December 18, 2024
Next on the docket is Nicole McGraw, Trump’s pick for ambassador to Croatia. A philanthropist and art collector, McGraw isn’t just about pretty paintings. Her work with CANVAS Art Charities and Place of Hope underscores her commitment to children and families in crisis. With a degree in art history and studio art from Southern Methodist University, McGraw is a quintessential Trump pick: someone who blends private-sector savvy with a touch of cultural polish. Critics might grumble, but Trump’s focus on results, not resumes, continues to guide his personnel decisions.
Now, let’s talk about that parting shot at Senate Republicans. If you thought Trump was going to let Mitch McConnell and company run the show, think again. His message was clear: no backroom deals with Democrats to rush through nominations.
🚨BREAKING: President Trump calls on Senate Republicans to oppose secret negotiations aimed at fast-tracking his nominations. pic.twitter.com/hBw9sxwI4r
— Benny Johnson (@bennyjohnson) December 18, 2024
Instead, Trump wants his team—his very qualified team—installed on his timeline. “I will make my appointments of Very Qualified People in January when I am sworn in,” he wrote, reminding everyone of what he’s calling the “biggest mandate in 129 years.” That might be hyperbole, but hey, when has Trump ever been shy about superlatives?
What’s striking here is how Trump is signaling, once again, that he’s not playing by anyone else’s rules. The mainstream media will call it chaos. His critics will call it cronyism. But his base? They call it a breath of fresh air. For them, Trump’s unorthodox picks and unfiltered directives are exactly why they voted for him—twice.
So, as January approaches, Trump’s message is loud and clear: buckle up. Whether it’s shaking up Washington or appointing ambassadors who reflect his values, the president-elect is proving, yet again, that he’s here to drain the swamp—and maybe make a few waves while he’s at it.
