America's next National Security Adviser: Who'll replace John Bolton?

Trump has said he now has 15 candidates for the job of National Security Adviser, a day after saying he had a shortlist of five. He said he would probably have a decision on who gets the post next week

"Everybody wants it very badly, as you can imagine," Trump said. "A lot of people want the job. It's a great job."

Trump's list of people being considered for the job is largely made up of reliable conservatives with solid ties to key Trump administration stalwarts, according to several sources who spoke on condition of anonymity.

Mike Pompeo (File photo)

He was the executive secretary of the National Security Council until Bolton took over the office 17 months ago. He has been active in the effort to force Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro to step down.

Hook is also liked by Pompeo but he was just appointed to play an increased role in a Middle East peace initiative run by senior Trump adviser and son-in-law Jared Kushner.

Waddell was deputy White House national security adviser for a year when retired General HR McMaster had the top job, and was well-liked within the White House, said a source familiar with the matter.  (Image courtesy: @MiguelVargasM)

He was a potential candidate although Trump has said he likes the job Grenell is doing as ambassador, a source familiar with the situation said.

Some of the other high profiles contenders include Rob Blair, NSA to Mick Mulvaney; Fred Fleitz, Ex-chief of staff of John Bolton; Pete Hoekstra, US envoy to the Netherlands; Steve Biegun, US special representative to North Korea, among others.

( In picture: Pete Hoekstra and Steve Biegun) (Image source: Twitter @petehoekstra/ AFP)