As Donald Trump begins his second term as president, the America First Policy Institute (AFPI) is living up to its reputation as a cornerstone of his administration. Established in 2021, the nonprofit has been dubbed Trump’s “cabinet in waiting” for its consistent alignment with his agenda and preparation for his potential return to office. The organization’s influence is now fully realized as many of its top leaders and affiliates take prominent positions in Trump’s cabinet and administration.
Recent financial disclosures highlight the deep ties between AFPI and Trump’s new administration. Brooke Rollins, the president of AFPI, has been appointed as secretary of agriculture. Rollins reported earning over $1 million from AFPI in 2024 and an additional $560,000 in 2023, showcasing her integral role within the organization and its connection to Trump’s policy framework. Linda McMahon, chairwoman of AFPI’s board, has been named secretary of education. Although McMahon’s financial disclosures have not yet been released, her leadership within the organization underscores her influence in shaping its agenda.
Pam Bondi, a close Trump ally and former Florida attorney general, is taking on the role of attorney general. Bondi reported earning $520,000 from AFPI last year. John Ratcliffe, who has been nominated to lead the CIA, disclosed receiving $180,000 over the past two years. Kash Patel, set to take over as FBI director, has also been closely linked to AFPI through its American Security Team initiative. Other notable appointments include Lee Zeldin at the Environmental Protection Agency, Doug Collins at the Department of Veterans Affairs, and Scott Turner at the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Together, financial records reveal that AFPI has provided nearly $2.6 million to individuals now occupying critical positions in Trump’s administration.
AFPI’s role extends far beyond simply preparing personnel for government positions. Since its establishment, the organization has become a fundraising powerhouse, raising $30 million in 2023 and spending $23 million to support its initiatives. It has hosted forums, issued policy recommendations, and conducted training sessions, all aimed at refining Trump’s first-term policies and preparing for their expansion in his second term. During a women’s event in April 2024, Rollins revealed that the organization had drafted nearly 300 executive orders in anticipation of Trump’s return to the White House, showcasing its meticulous preparation.
The organization’s dual purpose as a think tank and talent pipeline has created a seamless transition for Trump’s administration. Many of its members have already played significant roles in shaping policies that align with his vision. AFPI’s preparation has streamlined the process of staffing key positions, ensuring that the administration is filled with loyalists well-versed in Trump’s priorities.
AFPI’s alignment with Trump’s policy goals is not new, but its ability to position itself as a cornerstone of his second term highlights its strategic importance. The nonprofit’s work spans various critical areas, including foreign policy, economic reform, national security, and education. By creating a network of experienced professionals and pre-preparing policy directives, AFPI has cemented its place as an integral part of Trump’s political movement.
The seamless integration of AFPI members into Trump’s cabinet reflects the enduring strength of his political agenda and the organization’s ability to transform its vision into actionable governance. As the administration begins its work, the influence of AFPI is expected to remain significant, shaping policies and decisions at the highest levels of government. This unique collaboration between a nonprofit and the federal government raises questions about ethics and transparency, but it undeniably underscores the strategic foresight of Trump’s team.
AFPI’s continued presence in Trump’s administration is a testament to its role as a policy incubator and governance powerhouse. Its ability to prepare, fundraise, and implement policies has made it an indispensable part of Trump’s political strategy, ensuring that his vision remains at the forefront of American governance. As the second term unfolds, AFPI’s impact on policy and personnel will likely solidify its legacy as a defining force in Trump’s political movement.
