Senator Marco Rubio has been a member of the Congressional-Executive Commission on China since 2015 and has been on Beijing’s blacklist for his human rights advocacy since 2020.
Reports suggest that President-elect Donald Trump is considering appointing Senator Rubio as his secretary of state. Rubio, a senior member of the Committee on Foreign Relations and the vice-ranking member of the Select Committee on Intelligence, has extensive foreign policy experience. Known for his hardline approach towards U.S. adversaries like China, Iran, and Cuba, Rubio’s potential appointment is eagerly anticipated.
Although the formal announcement is pending, sources indicate that the decision is likely. Former Ambassador to Germany Ric Grenell, another potential candidate for the position, has dismissed rumors of Rubio’s selection.
President Trump has wasted no time in assembling his foreign policy and national security team for his second term. Key appointments include Tom Homan as the border czar and Rep. Elise Stefanik as the ambassador to the United Nations. Additionally, Rep. Michael Waltz is rumored to be selected as the national security adviser.
Senator Rubio’s potential appointment holds significance not only in foreign affairs but also domestically. If appointed, Rubio would be the first Latino U.S. diplomat. This move could further bolster Trump’s support among Hispanic voters, a key voting bloc that contributed to his victory.
As a vocal critic of Beijing in the Senate, Rubio has made countering the Chinese regime a top priority. His advocacy for human rights has landed him on Beijing’s blacklist since 2020. Rubio has introduced legislation targeting U.S. lobbyists representing Chinese interests and has raised concerns over human rights abuses by Chinese companies.
Amid escalating tensions with China over Taiwan and Ukraine, Rubio remains steadfast in his support for democratic values. He believes that U.S. support for Taiwan will continue and has called for an end to the conflict in Ukraine.
If appointed, Rubio is likely to face little opposition in a Republican-controlled Senate. Under Florida law, Governor Ron DeSantis would have the authority to appoint Rubio’s successor until the next general election.
Senator John Fetterman has already endorsed Rubio’s potential appointment, citing him as a strong choice for the role of secretary of state.
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