Inside the pilgrimage to Mar-a-Lago” explores the influence and allure of Mar-a-Lago as a destination for political figures and influential individuals, detailing the social and political dynamics at play in gatherings held at the former President’s private club. Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida has become a central gathering spot for political figures and influential insiders as he prepares a new administration. Known as the “Winter White House,” Mar-a-Lago is now a hub of political activity, attracting potential appointees and high-profile figures like Elon Musk, who frequently joins Trump for dinners and meetings. Despite recent controversies, including an FBI raid that uncovered classified documents, the estate remains a powerful setting, heavily secured and symbolizing Trump’s influence beyond Washington.
Without a Mar-a-Lago invitation, Trump allies and office-seekers are filling hotels and restaurants in West Palm Beach, hoping for influence in his new administration. Notable figures like Robert F. Kennedy Jr., known for his vaccine skepticism, gather at local spots like The Ben hotel, where he is part of the transition team and is seeking a health policy role. Speaking with Tulsi Gabbard, he emphasized the ideological diversity and challenges facing the transition team as they advocate for their shared vision.
Prominent Republicans and Trump allies are converging on luxury hotels near Mar-a-Lago, like The Ben and The Breakers, as they vie for positions in Trump’s new administration. Marjorie Taylor Greene is rumored to be aiming for a cabinet role, while UFC CEO Dana White joined Trump on election night but claims no political ambitions. Amid the intense competition, a GOP insider described the transition as a “free for all” as party factions compete for influence. Some key figures, like Senator Tom Cotton, have indicated they prefer to stay out of the administration, opting for roles in Senate leadership instead.
Donald Trump plans to rely less on elected officials for senior roles in his administration, aiming to avoid past mistakes with “bad” or “disloyal” hires. His son, Don Jr., emphasized the need for team members who respect Trump’s judgment and indicated he would block unsuitable candidates. Reflecting on the unconventional 2016 transition—where Trump dismissed plans made by Chris Christie and hosted an “Apprentice”-style lineup at Trump Tower—this time, Trump seeks to apply lessons learned, with a tighter selection process to shape a more loyal team.
This time, Trump is prioritizing loyalty, focusing on allies who have stood by him from the start. Media crowd around Mar-a-Lago as his highly secure transition unfolds more quietly than in 2016. His first appointment, Florida political consultant Susie Wiles as White House chief of staff, hints at building a strong Florida-based conservative team in Washington. Wiles, described as the “Iron Lady of American electoral politics,” attracts talent from Florida, with many Republican insiders expecting a “Florida wave” of staffers loyal to Trump to play key roles in the new administration.
Florida, despite its large Republican delegation, has often been overlooked in national leadership. However, with Susie Wiles as Trump’s chief of staff, this may change. Key Floridians like Rick Scott and Marco Rubio are being considered for influential roles, and Florida State Senator Joe Gruters, a loyal Trump ally, hopes to join the team. Having co-chaired Trump’s 2016 Florida campaign, Gruters anticipates that Wiles will bring her dedicated Florida team to Washington, aiming to fill key positions with “true believers” who are aligned with Trump’s vision.
Palm Beach was initially unwelcoming to Trump in the 1980s, but it has since embraced him, with Trump merchandise visible throughout the town. Mar-a-Lago now serves as a major political hub, hosting events like next week’s CPAC investors summit and a visit from Argentina’s President Javier Milei. Florida lobbyist Slater Bayliss anticipates that Trump will spend much of his second term at Mar-a-Lago, solidifying its status as a key center of political influence.
Mar-a-Lago’s transformation from a controversial Palm Beach property into a powerful political hub and symbol of loyalty within Trump’s inner circle. As Trump prepares for a potential second term, Mar-a-Lago serves as a gathering place for prominent Republicans, influencers, and international leaders. With key appointments like Susie Wiles and a Florida-based team potentially heading to Washington, Trump is consolidating a loyalist base rooted in Florida. This shift underscores Trump’s influence beyond Washington, positioning Mar-a-Lago as a focal point of conservative strategy and political power in America.
