Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin, D-Ill., has announced his intention to vote in favor of confirming Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., as the next Secretary of State. In a statement, Durbin highlighted the shared foreign policy views between himself and Senator Rubio, emphasizing their collaboration on legislation related to human rights, China's global influence, and the recent election situation in Venezuela.
Durbin expressed confidence in Rubio's understanding of the United States' role in international affairs, citing his service on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and overall qualifications for the position. President-elect Donald Trump nominated Rubio for the cabinet post in November, a decision that has garnered bipartisan support.
Senator John Fetterman, D-Pa., also voiced his approval of Rubio's nomination, describing him as a strong choice for the role. Rubio, who has been serving in the U.S. Senate since 2011, is expected to undergo a smooth confirmation process.
If Rubio resigns from his Senate seat to assume the position of Secretary of State, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis will appoint a temporary replacement until a special election in 2026. The Senate Committee on Foreign Relations is scheduled to conduct a nomination hearing for Rubio on Wednesday to further evaluate his qualifications for the role.
Overall, Senator Durbin's endorsement, along with bipartisan support from other lawmakers, indicates a positive outlook for Rubio's confirmation as Secretary of State.
