Trump appoints secretary of state, national security adviser

Sources indicate that U.S. President-elect Donald Trump plans to nominate Florida Senator Marco Rubio as Secretary of State.

Known for his expertise in foreign policy, Rubio is a strong advocate for national security and is anticipated to strengthen Trump’s impact on international affairs.

According to Daily Mail, Rubio, a son of Cuban immigrants and a well-known critic of regimes in Iran and China, serves as the leading Republican on the Senate Intelligence Committee.

While he initially vied against Trump in the 2016 presidential race, the two have since aligned, with Rubio actively supporting Trump’s recent campaign efforts.

This appointment highlights Trump’s commitment to resolving the Ukraine conflict swiftly and addressing ongoing instability in the Middle East, where tensions involving Israel, Hamas, and Iran continue, exacerbated by China’s actions against U.S. interests.

The announcement followed Sen. Bill Hagerty’s congratulatory message to Rubio, expressing confidence in his ability to drive Trump’s “America First” foreign policy.

“Congratulations to my friend on being nominated for Secretary of State! I have no doubt that he is ready to implement President Trump’s America First, peace-through-strength agenda around the world,” Hagerty wrote.

Rubio’s nomination comes as Trump shapes his incoming administration, signaling a tough stance on immigration and national security.

Notably, Stephen Miller, architect of Trump’s prior immigration policies, has been named deputy chief of staff for policy, with Tom Homan set to lead Trump’s extensive border security plan.

Additionally, Trump has nominated Rep. Elise Stefanik as U.S. ambassador to the United Nations and Rep. Michael Waltz as National Security Advisor.

Known for his strong stance on reducing U.S. reliance on China, Waltz joins Trump’s team without needing Senate confirmation, as Trump has indicated a preference for recess appointments.

Rubio, set to become the highest-serving Hispanic official in U.S. history, will follow former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, who, alongside Nikki Haley, has been excluded from Trump’s upcoming administration.