Marco Rubio was confirmed as the first Cabinet member of Donald Trump’s second administration, appointed as the 72nd Secretary of State. After taking the oath of office, Rubio outlined three guiding questions that would determine the actions of the State Department: “Does it make us stronger? Does it make us safer? And does it make us more prosperous?”
In his confirmation speech, Rubio expressed gratitude to his family, particularly his parents, Cuban refugees who came to the U.S. in 1956 with hopes for their children’s success. He also became the first Hispanic American to hold this prestigious position. Rubio reiterated President Trump’s foreign policy vision, stressing that the primary priority of the State Department would be advancing U.S. interests and national security.
Rubio emphasized his commitment to making the State Department a fast-moving, 21st-century agency and reaffirmed his belief in diplomacy, particularly in complex global conflicts like the war in Ukraine. He also spoke pragmatically about the situation in Gaza, acknowledging challenges but expressing hope for peace.
During interviews, Rubio addressed topics such as the Russia-Ukraine war, the situation in Gaza, and Trump’s controversial pardons for January 6 rioters, but stayed focused on his new role and the diplomatic challenges ahead.
