Donald Trump is expected to select U.S. Senator Marco Rubio as his secretary of state. This decision would make Rubio the first Latino to serve as America’s top diplomat when Trump takes office in January. Rubio, a Florida-born politician, is known for his strong foreign policy views.
Rubio’s Foreign Policy Stance
Rubio has been one of the most hawkish options on Trump’s shortlist for secretary of state. In the past, he has advocated for a strong foreign policy against America’s geopolitical foes, including China, Iran, and Cuba. However, in recent years, Rubio has softened some of his stances to align more closely with Trump’s views. Trump has criticized past U.S. presidents for leading America into costly wars and has pushed for a more restrained foreign policy.
Trump’s Decision
While Trump is known for changing his mind, sources say he has settled on Rubio as of Monday. Representatives for Trump and Rubio did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The new administration will face a more volatile and dangerous world than when Trump first took office in 2017, with ongoing wars in Ukraine and the Middle East and China aligning more closely with U.S. foes Russia and Iran.
Ukraine Crisis
The Ukraine crisis will be a top priority for Rubio. He has stated in recent interviews that Ukraine should seek a negotiated settlement with Russia rather than focus on regaining all territory lost in the past decade. Rubio was also one of 15 Republican senators to vote against a $95 billion military aid package for Ukraine in April. His likely selection underscores a shift in Republican foreign policy views under Trump, moving from military intervention to restraint.
Domestic and International Significance
Rubio’s selection holds both domestic and international significance. Trump won the Nov. 5 election partly by gaining support from Latinos, who had previously voted overwhelmingly for Democrats. By choosing Rubio for a key policy role, Trump may consolidate electoral gains among Latinos and show that they have a place at the highest levels of his administration.
China and Cuba Hawk
Rubio was one of three final contenders for Trump’s vice-presidential pick. Trump ultimately chose U.S. Senator JD Vance of Ohio, known for his isolationist foreign policy positions. Some of Trump’s supporters may be skeptical of Rubio’s selection, as he has held strong foreign policy positions that contradict Trump’s views.
During Trump’s 2017-2021 term, Rubio co-sponsored legislation to make it harder for Trump to withdraw from NATO. Trump has criticized NATO member countries for not meeting military spending targets and has warned that he would not defend nations delinquent on funding.
Rubio is a top China hawk in the Senate and was sanctioned by Beijing in 2020 over his stance on Hong Kong. He called on the Treasury Department in 2019 to review the national security implications of Chinese social media app TikTok’s acquisition of Musical.ly. As the top Republican on the Senate Intelligence Committee, Rubio has also pressured the Biden administration to block all sales to Huawei.
Rubio’s Domestic Impact
Rubio’s appointment could also have significant domestic implications. By selecting a Latino for such a high-profile position, Trump may strengthen his support among Latino voters. This demographic has become increasingly diverse in political preferences, with more Latinos voting Republican in recent elections. Rubio’s role could help consolidate these gains and demonstrate that Latinos have a significant place in Trump’s administration.
Challenges Ahead
Rubio will face numerous challenges as secretary of state. The global landscape has become more complex, with rising tensions in various regions. Navigating these challenges will require a delicate balance between maintaining strong U.S. positions and seeking diplomatic solutions. Rubio’s experience and hawkish stance may help him address these issues effectively, but he will need to adapt to the evolving geopolitical environment.
