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Florida Senator Marco Rubio, Trump's Nominee, Vows 'America First' Policy as First Latino Secretary of State

Jan 15, 2025, 02:46 PM

Florida Senator Marco Rubio, nominated by President-elect Donald Trump to serve as Secretary of State, has vowed to implement an 'America First' foreign policy during his confirmation hearing before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. Rubio, a 53-year-old born to Cuban immigrants, emphasized that placing American interests 'above all else' is not isolationism but a commonsense approach to foreign policy. He criticized the postwar global order as obsolete and detrimental to U.S. interests, particularly highlighting China's rise to global superpower status as having come at America's expense. Rubio, who would be the first Latino to hold the position if confirmed, has shifted his stance on immigration to align more closely with Trump's policies. His approach to foreign affairs is grounded in his years of service on both the Foreign Relations Committee and the Senate Intelligence panel. Rubio noted that Trump's decisive win gives him an 'unmistakable mandate' from voters to pursue a strong America engaged in the world but focused on promoting peace abroad and security and prosperity at home. His confirmation is expected to be smooth, garnering support from both Republicans and Democrats.