November 12, 2024
In an unexpected show of bipartisan support, Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pa., endorsed Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., as a “strong choice” for the role of Secretary of State, a cabinet position President-elect Donald Trump is expected to nominate Rubio for early next year. Fetterman expressed his support for Rubio’s nomination in a post on X (formerly Twitter), acknowledging their political differences while commending Rubio’s qualifications.
“Unsurprisingly, the other team’s pick will have political differences than my own,” Fetterman wrote. “That being said, my colleague @SenMarcoRubio is a strong choice, and I look forward to voting for his confirmation.”
Rubio’s appointment, if confirmed, would leave a vacancy in the U.S. Senate, which Florida Governor Ron DeSantis would be tasked with filling on an interim basis until a special election determines a more permanent replacement. Several prominent Florida Republicans, including Rep. Greg Steube and Rep. Carlos Giménez, have praised Trump’s reported selection of Rubio for Secretary of State.
“Senator Rubio has a proven record of promoting freedom, defending American interests on the global stage, and standing firm against threats from the CCP,” Steube said in a tweet, calling Rubio “an outstanding choice.”
Rep. Giménez echoed these sentiments, stating that “President Trump has made a truly historic and brilliant choice in selecting Senator Marco Rubio as our nation’s Secretary of State.” Giménez further praised Rubio’s commitment to advancing American values abroad.
Rubio, who has served as a Florida senator since 2011, has been a prominent figure in U.S. foreign policy, known for his strong stance on China and his advocacy for human rights. The senator has also recently shown support for his colleague, Sen. Rick Scott, in the race for Senate Republican Leader, with Sens. John Cornyn, R-Texas, and John Thune, R-S.D., also vying for the position.
Trump’s anticipated choice of Rubio comes as he moves to assemble a cabinet with significant foreign policy experience amid ongoing global challenges. A confirmation vote for Rubio is expected to take place in early 2025 following Trump’s inauguration. If confirmed, Rubio’s appointment would mark a key addition to Trump’s second-term cabinet, emphasizing continuity in U.S. foreign policy with a strong focus on countering global threats and promoting democratic values abroad.
Rubio’s current role includes a position on the Senate Intelligence Committee, where he has been a vocal advocate for U.S. national security. Should he depart, it is anticipated that Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., may succeed him in his Intelligence Committee post.
Sources:
- Fetterman’s post on X
- Statements from Reps. Greg Steube and Carlos Giménez
- The New York Times and Axios reports
