Following President Trump's inauguration, three of his key nominees are undergoing Senate evaluations. Doug Collins, nominated to lead the Department of Veterans Affairs, will testify before the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee. Elise Stefanik, Trump's pick for U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, will appear before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. Simultaneously, the Senate Finance Committee will vote on Scott Bessent's nomination for Treasury Secretary.

Stefanik's confirmation would mark the first time in over two decades that a sitting member of Congress has been appointed U.N. Ambassador. In her opening statement, Stefanik emphasized her commitment to aligning the U.N. mission with American interests and promoting Trump's 'America First' foreign policy. She underscored the importance of American leadership in addressing global crises, citing challenges posed by nations like China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran, and acknowledging the gravity of the recent terrorist attack on Israel.

Stefanik also stressed fiscal responsibility regarding U.S. contributions to the U.N., advocating for reforms to ensure effective use of taxpayer dollars and prevent funding of entities contrary to American interests. She called for a return to the U.N.'s founding mission of maintaining international peace and security.

Collins' hearing marks the first for a potential cabinet member following Trump's inauguration and subsequent executive actions. His confirmation process is expected to be smoother than some, given his background as a former congressman and Navy veteran. As potential VA secretary, Collins would address challenges within the veterans' healthcare system, including wait times, access to care, mental health support, and budget constraints. A recent VA report highlighted the ongoing issue of veteran suicides, a concern that the incoming administration will likely prioritize.

While Collins' hearing takes place, the Senate Foreign Relations Committee will consider Stefanik's nomination. Her limited foreign policy experience and staunch support for Israel are expected to be discussion points, along with her perspectives on the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Despite these potential points of contention, Stefanik is anticipated to be confirmed, with support already voiced by Senator John Fetterman, a fellow advocate for Israel.

The Senate Finance Committee will also vote on Scott Bessent's nomination for Treasury Secretary. Bessent has advocated for extending the 2017 Trump tax cuts, calling it a crucial economic issue. He has faced questions from Democrats regarding the impact of these tax cuts on the federal deficit and their potential bias towards the wealthy. Bessent has maintained that Trump's economic policies would prioritize the interests of everyday Americans.