"Matt is a strong warrior and loyal patriot, who will ensure the United States' interests are advanced and defended” Trump said in a statement. He will strengthen relationships with the US’s NATO Allies, and stand firm in the face of threats to peace and stability, the President-elect added.

Whitaker, who served as acting Attorney General for three months during Trump's 2017-2021 term, has been actively involved with the America First Policy Institute, a right-leaning think tank that has been working to shape policy for Trump's second term.