It looks like Donald Trump is stacking up a cabinet of unapologetic America-first advocates as he gears up for another term in office.
Word has it he’s chosen none other than Florida Senator Marco Rubio as Secretary of State. Rubio, with his no-nonsense stance on foreign policy, especially towards adversaries like China and Iran, seems to be a perfect fit for the job. In a world where America’s influence has been steadily challenged, a guy like Rubio could make it clear that the U.S. isn’t taking a backseat anymore.
Now, Rubio has a reputation for being a hawk on foreign policy, particularly in places where U.S. strength has waned. Early on, he was known for pushing interventionist policies that sometimes set him apart from his more cautious Republican colleagues. Lately, however, he’s aligned more closely with Trump’s perspective, including his approach to Russia and Ukraine. Recently, Rubio’s called for the conflict in Ukraine to reach a resolution, saying it’s time to bring this “stalemate” to a close.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio on what should be done about Hamas
Via @ShabbosK pic.twitter.com/OkAsfghEAN
— Visegrád 24 (@visegrad24) November 12, 2024
Rubio’s been outspoken about the dangers posed by authoritarian regimes like China’s and Iran’s. As Secretary of State, he’d likely use his post to assert that American interests come first, setting a tone that the U.S. will meet aggression with strength and resolve.
Joining Rubio, Rep. Mike Waltz, also from Florida, has reportedly been selected as National Security Advisor. Waltz, a Green Beret and staunch China critic, has been vocal about his “peace through strength” philosophy—an approach that aligns perfectly with the administration’s no-nonsense foreign policy style. With his military background, Waltz isn’t likely to be swayed by political correctness or hesitant about calling out threats to national security.
He’ll be advising Trump directly on matters that impact the safety and stability of the country, and with a direct line to the president, he’ll play a huge role in how the U.S. engages with the rest of the world. Importantly, this role doesn’t need Senate confirmation, so he’ll be ready to jump in right away.
Trump’s latest picks are a clear signal that his administration plans to get tough on border security, global influence, and defense. He’s already tapped Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-NY) for U.N. Ambassador, sending a clear message that America will prioritize its own interests on the international stage. Adding Tom Homan, the former acting director of ICE, as the new “border czar,” is another strong move toward clamping down on illegal immigration and keeping borders secure.
And for those who are tired of endless bureaucracy and weak enforcement, Homan’s appointment should come as a welcome change. On top of that, former Rep. Lee Zeldin (R-NY) is set to head the EPA, hinting at a more balanced approach to environmental policy that respects both conservation and economic growth.
However, not everyone seems happy about his pick.
Marco Rubio is a neocon.
Not sure why Trump nominated him for Secretary of State.
— Wall Street Silver (@WallStreetSilv) November 12, 2024
The roster so far shows a deliberate shift toward strong, America-first policies, and it’s clear Trump is making choices that reflect a firm stance on national security, global influence, and securing the homeland. With this kind of lineup, you can expect an administration focused on reinforcing America’s standing as a global leader, defending its borders, and taking on global adversaries with more backbone than we’ve seen in years. It’s a cabinet that says loud and clear: America’s back, and it means business.