Florida Senator Marco Rubio is expected to be named Secretary of State by President-elect Donald Trump, according to a report by the New York Times.
If confirmed, Rubio would join a growing list of key appointees in Trump’s administration, including Susie Wiles, Stephen Miller, Tom Homan, Lee Zeldin, Elise Stefanik, and Mike Waltz.
The New York Times, citing three sources familiar with Trump’s plans, reported that Rubio has been a strong supporter of Trump on the campaign trail and aligns with several of Trump’s foreign policy priorities.
I’m thrilled for my friend, Florida colleague, and our next Secretary of State @marcorubio!
He will restore American leadership around the world, especially in Latin America, as he represents the United States with dignity and courage!
It’s been an honor to serve the people of… pic.twitter.com/wO39115QO2
— Rick Scott (@ScottforFlorida) November 12, 2024
Rubio, who has served in the Senate since 2010, is known for his firm stances on China and Iran, as well as his interest in pursuing a diplomatic resolution to the Russia-Ukraine conflict—a priority that Trump has also emphasized.
Rubio emerged in the political scene through the Tea Party movement, a populist wave that is often considered a precursor to Trump’s “Make America Great Again” (MAGA) campaign.
Despite occasional disagreements with Trump in the past, Rubio has supported him on significant issues during Trump’s previous White House term, helping to bridge any prior rift between them.
Neither Trump nor Rubio has publicly commented on the Times report, and Trump’s plans for the position remain unofficial, as he could still change his mind.
However, sources have indicated that Rubio is currently the leading choice, and he was also a candidate for Trump’s vice-presidential pick earlier in the campaign.
Florida Senator Rick Scott reacted positively to the potential appointment, offering a warm congratulations to Rubio. “I’m thrilled for my friend, Florida colleague, and our next Secretary of State @marcorubio!” Scott wrote in a statement Monday evening.
“He will restore American leadership around the world, especially in Latin America, as he represents the United States with dignity and courage. It’s been an honor to serve the people of Florida alongside him, and I look forward to continuing our work together.”
If appointed, Rubio would make history as the first Latino to serve as U.S. Secretary of State, bringing a unique perspective to a role that oversees critical international relationships and diplomatic efforts.
Observers believe that Rubio’s experience and background could shape U.S. foreign policy on issues such as human rights, security, and trade, particularly in Latin America and other regions where his influence may prove valuable.
Rubio’s extensive Senate experience and his hardline positions on key foreign policy issues align closely with the direction Trump has signaled for his administration’s approach to global affairs.
His appointment would represent a continuation of Trump’s focus on assertive, America-first diplomacy aimed at reestablishing the U.S. as a dominant force on the world stage.
As the incoming administration begins to solidify its leadership team, Rubio’s appointment would mark a significant step in shaping the future of U.S. diplomacy and foreign relations.
