Who’s on Trump’s short list in Louisiana for possible key appointments?

President-elect Donald Trump continues to mine Louisiana political talent for possible key appointments in his administration even after Republican Gov. Jeff Landry took his name off the table for now.
That still leaves state Treasurer John Fleming, Congressman Garret Graves, former two-term Gov. Bobby Jindal and Louisiana Schools Superintendent Cade Brumley as among those being considered for spots in the Trump administration, according to published reports.
Fleming told USA Today Network this week he has already been contacted by the Trump team and would be interested in a “senior position” if offered.
Fleming, a former congressman from Minden who was elected treasurer in 2023, served in Trump’s previous administration from 2017 through 2020 in three appointments, concluding his service in the White House as deputy chief of staff and assistant to the president.
Graves is among those being considered for Trump’s transportation secretary, a cabinet level position.
Among Graves’ advantages is that his selection wouldn’t imperil the Republicans’ narrow majority in the House. Graves didn’t seek reelection after his 6th Congressional District was radically altered to create a majority Black district that Democrat Congressman-elect Cleo Fields won on Nov. 5.
Republican U.S. Sen. Bill Cassidy told reporters Wednesday Graves is “eminently qualified” for the job.
“I absolutely would support Garret as secretary of transportation,” Cassidy said.
Graves had been in line to chair the House Transportation Committee before deciding to retire from Congress.
Jindal is reportedly under consideration for secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, a cabinet level position.
The former governor leads the America First Policy Institute, a think tank that includes healthcare as one of its pillars. Jindal worked at the agency under President George W. Bush and also led Louisiana’s Department of Health before he was elected governor.
Brumley was mentioned by The Washington Post this week as a contender for secretary of the U.S. Department of Education.
He joined the state in a lawsuit to block new Title IX LGBTQ protections in schools issued by President Biden’s administration.
“President Trump has outlined a courageous plan that will return the focus of America’s schools to academic excellence and benefit students, parents and teachers,” Brumley said in a statement. “Being mentioned for a role in his administration is an honor and a testament to the work we’ve done as a state to improve outcomes for students, expand parental rights and value teachers.
“Right now, I’m focused on continuing our progress here in Louisiana.”
USA Today Network is seeking comment from Graves and Jindal.
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This story has been updated with additional information.
Greg Hilburn covers state politics for the USA TODAY Network of Louisiana. Follow him on Twitter @GregHilburn1