It has been reported that US President-elect Donald Trump has appointed Florida Senator Marco Rubio as Secretary of State.
According to the Daily Mail, Rubio is known as an expert on foreign policy.
He is also a strong supporter of national security and is expected to strengthen Trump’s influence on international affairs.
Rubio is the son of Cuban immigrants, is known as a critic of the Iranian and Chinese regimes, and is the top Republican on the Senate Intelligence Committee.
Rubio initially opposed Trump in the 2016 presidential election, but has since become an ally, and Rubio has actively supported Trump’s recent election campaign.
The appointment underscores President Trump’s commitment to a swift resolution of the Ukraine conflict and combating the instability in the Middle East, where tensions between Israel, Hamas and Iran continue and are exacerbated by Chinese actions contrary to U.S. interests.
The announcement came after Senator Bill Hagerty congratulated Rubio, expressing confidence in his ability to advance Trump’s “America First” foreign policy.
“Congratulations to my friend on his nomination for Secretary of State! I have no doubt that he is prepared to implement President Trump’s ‘America First’ peace and strength policies around the world,” Hagerty wrote.
Rubio’s nomination comes as President Trump is forming his next administration and signaling a tougher stance on immigration and national security issues. Notably, Stephen Miller, the architect of Trump’s previous immigration policies, has been appointed deputy chief of staff for policy, and Tom Homan will lead Trump’s broader border security plan.
In addition, Trump nominated Rep. Elise Stefanik as ambassador to the United Nations and Rep. Michael Walz as national security adviser.
Walz is known for his strong stance on reducing America’s dependence on China, and will join Trump’s team without Senate confirmation, as Trump has indicated he is in favor of recess appointments.
Rubio is set to become the longest-serving Hispanic politician in U.S. history and will replace former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, who, like Nikki Haley, was ousted from the incoming Trump administration.