According to three sources familiar with the matter, Brian Hook, a top State Department official during the first Trump administration, is expected to lead the transition team at the department for President-elect Donald Trump. Hook brings a wealth of knowledge about the State Department, having served in various roles within the building.
During Trump's first term, Hook held the position of director of policy planning staff from 2017 to 2018. Subsequently, he served as the US special envoy for Iran from 2018 until 2020. Additionally, Hook has experience as assistant secretary of state for international organizations and senior adviser to the US ambassador to the United Nations during George W. Bush's presidency.
Hook and the Trump campaign have chosen not to comment on the matter, leaving uncertainty about whether the Trump team will utilize the offices for transition at the State Department.
Retired career Ambassador Stephen Mull will lead the State Department's transition work, as confirmed by multiple sources. Last week, representatives from Trump's team engaged with federal agency transition planners to discuss 'post-election readiness,' according to a White House official. However, critical memoranda of understanding (MOUs) with the Biden administration have not been signed by Trump, hindering the unlocking of transition activities necessary for the next administration to swiftly commence and access essential information.
