(Scypre.com) – President-elect Donald Trump is expected to nominate Senator Marco Rubio of Florida as the next U.S. Secretary of State, a source familiar with the matter confirmed to Fox News. Although Trump retains the option to change his mind before finalizing the choice, Rubio currently leads the shortlist for the position, marking a significant appointment in the new administration’s emerging cabinet.
The selection would represent a reunion of sorts between the two figures. Rubio was once considered as Trump’s potential vice-presidential running mate in the months leading up to this year’s GOP National Convention. Ultimately, Trump chose Senator J.D. Vance of Ohio for the role. But Rubio, a prominent voice on Capitol Hill and known for his strong positions on foreign policy, has since gained favor with the Trump team, emerging as the likely choice to oversee U.S. diplomacy in a time of heightened global tensions.
While spokespersons for Trump’s transition team declined to comment on the reported nomination, multiple sources indicated that the decision was in its final stages. The news first broke through a report from The New York Times.
If confirmed, Rubio, who has served three terms in the Senate, would become the first Latino Secretary of State in U.S. history, a milestone that could resonate in various political and cultural spheres. Born to Cuban exiles, Rubio entered national politics as part of the Tea Party movement, first winning his Senate seat in 2010. He quickly made a name for himself as a staunch advocate for U.S. alliances abroad, including NATO, and is widely viewed as a foreign policy “hawk.”
Despite these credentials, Rubio’s record on international issues has aligned with Trump’s views on several fronts. Known for his support of Israel and strong stance against Russia, Rubio voted earlier this year against a $95 billion aid package for Ukraine, a position Trump also supports. Instead, Rubio has urged diplomatic measures to encourage a negotiated end to the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. On matters involving the Middle East, particularly Israel, Rubio has consistently demonstrated unwavering support. He has stood firmly with Israel in its recent clashes with Hamas, calling for measures that bolster Israel’s security.
Rubio’s relationship with Trump has evolved considerably over recent years. The two were once fierce competitors in the 2016 Republican primaries, a period marked by sharp exchanges, with Trump famously nicknaming him “Little Marco.” But Rubio has since become one of Trump’s staunchest allies in the Senate, particularly on issues related to foreign policy and national security. His expected appointment has garnered praise from allies within the Republican Party, as well as prominent organizations.
The Republican Jewish Coalition (RJC), a significant supporter of Trump, expressed approval of Rubio’s expected nomination. RJC National Chairman Senator Norm Coleman and CEO Matt Brooks issued a joint statement, saying, “We know that with Senator Rubio leading the State Department, America will stand shoulder-to-shoulder with our allies and confront our enemies.” They went on to commend Rubio’s commitment to Israel, describing him as “an outspoken defender of Israel who has always had the Jewish state’s back.”
This appointment would add to a rapidly forming team in Trump’s administration. Just days after securing a second term, Trump has already made significant moves in constructing his cabinet. In the past 24 hours, the president-elect has announced Rep. Elise Stefanik of New York as the nominee for U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, Tom Homan as the “border czar,” Rep. Michael Waltz of Florida as the national security advisor, and former Representative Lee Zeldin of New York to lead the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Trump’s swift assembly of a high-profile cabinet demonstrates his intent to tackle both domestic and international issues immediately upon assuming office. With key appointments taking shape, the president-elect’s foreign policy team may include figures with extensive experience in national security, immigration, and environmental matters, signaling the administration’s priorities in addressing global conflicts and partnerships.
As Rubio awaits the official announcement, his prospective role as Secretary of State may mark a new chapter for the nation’s foreign policy, one that could see the U.S. reaffirming longstanding alliances and re-evaluating its positions in critical regions.