Trump taps Cuban American Marco Rubio to lead the US State Department
Al Jazeera
Trump picked his hawkish former rival to be Secretary of State, and Tulsi Gabbard as director of national intelligence.
Putting an end to days of speculation, United States President-elect Donald Trump nominated Florida Senator Marco Rubio to lead the State Department under the incoming administration.
The choice of his former political rival had been rumoured for days and signals the new administration’s commitment to a hawkish foreign policy.
A Cuban American known for his hardline views on China and staunch support for Israel, Rubio would be the first Hispanic American to serve as Washington’s top diplomat if confirmed to the role.
“Marco is a Highly Respected Leader, and a very powerful Voice for Freedom,” Trump wrote in a statement announcing his choice on Wednesday. “He will be a strong Advocate for our Nation, a true friend to our Allies, and a fearless Warrior who will never back down to our adversaries.”
Trump also tapped former Democratic congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard to serve as director of national intelligence.
