WASHINGTON – Senator Marco Rubio has made history by being the first member of President Donald Trump’s Cabinet to receive Senate approval, achieving a substantial confirmation just hours after the new administration took charge.

Rubio was confirmed with a unanimous vote of 99-0 on Monday evening.

This confirmation allows the Trump administration to swiftly begin implementing a foreign policy that prioritizes American national interests, leveraging protective measures like tariffs to encourage other nations to change their conduct.

As the son of Cuban immigrants, Rubio will be the first Latino to serve as Secretary of State. He comes to the role with over a decade’s experience, having been part of both the Foreign Relations and Intelligence Committees for 14 years. He previously ran against Trump for the Republican presidential nomination in 2016.

Rubio criticized what he views as a “dangerous” shift towards a liberal world order that undermines U.S. security, stating during his confirmation hearing: “Under President Trump, the top priority of the United States Department of State will be the United States.”

He emphasized that Trump will prioritize “the interests of America and Americans above all else,” ensuring that the U.S. is well-positioned to safeguard its allies and itself.

“Our wealth and power, while substantial, have limits, and recognizing our core national interests is not isolationism,” Rubio explained. “It’s a realistic understanding that a foreign policy rooted in our national interest is not an outdated concept.”

By early Monday evening, Rubio was the only Trump nominee confirmed by the Senate, as others had yet to be voted on.

The Foreign Relations Committee had unanimously endorsed Rubio for the position before the Senate’s full vote on Monday afternoon.

“We are pleased to have worked together in a bipartisan manner to ensure Senator Marco Rubio is ready to lead the State Department efficiently,” said Sen. Jim Risch, R-Idaho, chairman of the committee, alongside Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, D-N.H., the ranking member, in a joint statement.

“The national security of the United States is our main concern, and it is crucial for our country to have consistent leadership in place promptly.”

While Trump’s team aimed to expedite national security appointments, they faced delays due to incomplete paperwork and a late start in submitting nominees’ background checks to the FBI.

Minority Leader Chuck Schumer remarked in a Senate speech that Democrats would not automatically approve Trump’s agenda nor oppose nominees they felt deserved genuine consideration.

“Sen. Rubio represents a qualified nominee who should be confirmed swiftly,” he said. “While I disagree with many of his viewpoints, having a Senate-confirmed Secretary of State for the new administration is essential, therefore, I’ll vote in favor.”

Rubio is expected to begin work at the State Department on Tuesday.

His staff will comprise a combination of Trump political appointees, current and former aides from his Senate team, and career officials with relevant expertise who serve irrespective of the administration in power.

Rubio Takes on Key Role in Explaining Trump’s Foreign Policy

As the primary diplomat for the nation, Rubio will be responsible for executing Trump’s executive decisions and clarifying the rationale behind the businessman’s strategies to compel allies to contribute financially. Rubio has indicated his intention to leverage his position to counter China and Russia while fostering unity among Middle Eastern nations against Iran.

During his confirmation hearing, he described China as “the most formidable and dangerous rival this nation has ever encountered, with capabilities that the Soviet Union lacked.”

He asserted, “Under no circumstances should we accept an Iran and Iranian regime capable of resuming and promoting terrorism.”

When addressing complex issues, Rubio made it clear that Trump would dictate policies, giving hints about the Republican approach.

Rubio explained to lawmakers that the resolution of the Russia-Ukraine conflict should involve concessions from both parties, stressing, “Now devising that comprehensive plan will be challenging. My hope is that it can start with a ceasefire.”

He also proposed the U.S. reassess its role in NATO.

“There’s a question to consider,” Rubio stated, “whether the U.S. should maintain a leading defense position within the security alliance or provide a support role against aggression while nations closer to Russia take the lead in military contributions.”

During the hearing, Virginia Sen. Tim Kaine, a Democrat who collaborated with Rubio on legislation that prevents Trump from unilaterally exiting NATO, expressed his approval of Rubio’s appointment.

“He possesses a well-rounded understanding of global matters coupled with a genuine interest in various regions,” Kaine remarked. “He speaks from knowledge, not from a script.”

Recently, appearing on conservative commentator Ben Shapiro’s podcast, Trump national security adviser Michael Waltz noted that while other diplomats are preoccupied with urgent crises in the Middle East, Asia, and Europe, Rubio will also place emphasis on Latin America.

Waltz described Rubio as “a rare leader genuinely committed to nurturing relationships in that region,” highlighting his understanding of the complex dynamics and dedication to thorough engagement.