In a historic move, the U.S. Senate unanimously confirmed Senator Marco Rubio, R-Fla., as Secretary of State with a 99-0 vote on January 20, 2025, marking the first confirmation of President Donald Trump’s cabinet.
Senator Katie Britt, R-Ala.,expressed her support, stating, “Senate Republicans immediately got to work putting President Donald Trump’s cabinet in place with the unanimous confirmation of my friend, Secretary of State Marco Rubio. He will serve as a pillar of President Trump’s national security team—implementing the Trump Administration’s peace through strength doctrine, supporting our security at home and abroad, and putting America first.”
Rubio, 53, becomes the first Latino to serve as the nation’s top diplomat. Known for his firm stance against China and strong support for Israel, Rubio emphasized during his confirmation hearing the need for a robust foreign policy centered on American interests. He also highlighted the importance of addressing the nation’s reliance on China and advocated for a resolution to the conflict in Ukraine that would involve concessions from both Moscow and Kyiv.
Following Rubio’s confirmation, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis appointed state Attorney General Ashley Moody to fill the remainder of Rubio’s Senate term.
The Senate is expected to continue confirming President Trump’s cabinet nominees in the coming days, with votes anticipated for positions including CIA Director, Defense Secretary, and Homeland Security Secretary.
