
Donald J. Trump’s return to the presidency brings a renewed focus on “America First” foreign policy, with Marco Rubio at the helm of the State Department.
At a Glance
- Donald J. Trump has been re-elected as President and appointed Marco Rubio as Secretary of State
- Rubio is the first Latino to hold the position of U.S. Secretary of State
- Trump signed an executive order prioritizing American interests in foreign policy
- Rubio pledges to align State Department with “America First” policy
- Focus on border security, abolishing DEI requirements, and reevaluating foreign aid
Trump’s “America First” Mandate
In a significant move following his re-election, President Donald J. Trump has appointed Marco Rubio as Secretary of State, signaling a renewed commitment to his “America First” foreign policy doctrine. The appointment, unanimously confirmed by the Senate, marks a historic moment as Rubio becomes the first Latino to hold this prestigious position.
And these two men, who once didn’t see eye to eye, are planning big things for the State Department.
President Trump wasted no time in setting the tone for his second administration’s foreign policy approach. He signed an executive order titled “America First Policy Directive to the Secretary of State,” emphasizing the prioritization of American interests in all international dealings. This directive underscores the administration’s commitment to reshaping U.S. foreign policy to more directly benefit the American people.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio greets State Department employees as he gets to work implementing President Trump's foreign policy agenda — AMERICA FIRST. pic.twitter.com/o5jrJ0aexQ
— Trump War Room (@TrumpWarRoom) January 21, 2025
Despite his previous neoconservative leanings, Secretary Rubio has pledged to align the State Department with the America First policy. This shift is evident in his recent actions, including voting against a substantial foreign aid package in April 2024. Rubio has outlined clear criteria for future foreign policy decisions, focusing on making America safer, stronger, and more prosperous.
“Every dollar we spend, every program we fund, and every policy we pursue must be justified with the answer to three simple questions: Does it make America safer? Does it make America stronger? Does it make America more prosperous?” Marco Rubio said.
Boy has he changed!
Under Rubio’s leadership, the State Department is set to prioritize securing U.S. borders, abolishing DEI requirements, and reinstating merit-based standards. These actions align closely with Trump’s vision for a more focused and domestically beneficial foreign policy approach.
Balancing Act: Domestic Priorities and International Engagement
While emphasizing America First principles, Rubio acknowledges the importance of strategic international partnerships. He plans to enhance collaborations with countries like Australia, Japan, and India to counter China’s growing influence in the Indo-Pacific region. This approach demonstrates a nuanced understanding of global dynamics within the America First framework.
“The world without American engagement is a world none of us wants to live with,” Marco Rubio said.
Rubio’s background, including his service on the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence and the Committee for Foreign Relations, positions him uniquely to navigate complex international issues. His deep connection to Miami and understanding of Latin American affairs are expected to influence U.S. strategy in the region.
As Rubio takes the helm at the State Department, he faces the challenge of implementing Trump’s America First vision while maintaining crucial international alliances.
Do you believe in him?