The President-elect appears poised to select the Florida Senator, known for his hard-line foreign policy stances, as the nation’s top diplomat

President-elect Donald J. Trump is expected to announce Senator Marco Rubio of Florida as his choice for Secretary of State, according to multiple sources familiar with the matter. The decision signals a significant step in Trump’s efforts to solidify his foreign policy and national security team ahead of his upcoming administration.

While Trump has not officially confirmed the appointment, insiders indicate that Rubio, who was previously considered for the vice-presidential pick this year, is now the frontrunner for the role of the nation’s chief diplomat. There remains the possibility that Trump could change his mind, but current signals suggest Rubio has emerged as the likely choice.

A member of the Senate since 2010, Rubio has positioned himself as a staunch advocate for a robust foreign policy, often taking hard-line stances on critical international issues. His positions on China, Iran, Venezuela, and Cuba have been marked by a commitment to confronting regimes he views as adversaries to U.S. interests. Rubio’s foreign policy views have sometimes put him at odds with fellow Republicans who lean toward non-interventionism. However, in recent years, he has aligned more closely with Trump on key issues, including Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Rubio has publicly stated that the conflict has reached a stalemate and emphasized the need to bring it to a resolution.

Rubio’s expected appointment as Secretary of State underscores the president-elect’s intention to take a firm stance on global affairs, particularly in regions where the U.S. has ongoing geopolitical challenges. With a strong focus on China’s growing influence, Iran’s nuclear ambitions, and the political dynamics in Latin America, Rubio’s selection would bring a well-established foreign policy voice to Trump’s administration.

His appointment would also reflect Trump’s preference for loyal and capable figures, as Rubio remained a staunch surrogate for the president-elect throughout the campaign, despite being passed over for the vice-presidency. Rubio’s steadfast support during the election season solidified his standing as a trusted ally, which may have contributed to his selection for such a pivotal role.

The announcement of Rubio as Secretary of State would mark another key development in Trump’s Cabinet selections, as the president-elect moves quickly to fill out the ranks of his administration. Rubio’s foreign policy expertise, combined with his political experience and support for Trump, makes him a fitting choice to take on the complex challenges facing U.S. diplomacy in the coming years.