Key Takeaways:
- Marco Rubio is holding a high position in the Trump administration but might pass the NSC to Stephen Miller.
- Rubio has many roles, including acting USAID head and archivist.
- His loyalty to Trump has caused him to lose support from career diplomats.
- Stephen Miller, known for his strong Trump ties, might take over the NSC.
Rubio’s Unexpected Rise in Power
Marco Rubio, once seen as a moderate figure in politics, is now in a powerful position. He serves as both Secretary of State and head of the National Security Council (NSC). This dual role is rare and was last held by Henry Kissinger decades ago.
Despite his high position, Rubio’s time in the spotlight might be short-lived. Some insiders suggest he could soon hand over the NSC role to Stephen Miller, a close ally of former President Donald Trump.
Rubio’s rise has surprised many in Washington. Analysts thought he’d be one of the first to leave the administration. Instead, he’s gained more responsibilities, including acting as the head of USAID and the national archivist.
However, his success has come at a cost. Rubio has alienated many career diplomats and foreign service officers. His approach to staffing prioritizes loyalty to Trump over expertise, which has weakened confidence in his leadership.
The Potential Handover to Stephen Miller
Stephen Miller, known for his hardline views and loyalty to Trump, could be next in line for the NSC role. This move would surprise many, as Miller lacks the traditional qualifications for the job.
Andreas Kluth, a columnist covering U.S. diplomacy, notes that Rubio’s willingness to please Trump has been the key to his success. Rubio has embraced Trump’s chaotic style, even if it means undermining the bureaucracies he’s supposed to lead.
Rubio’s Shift in Approach
Rubio’s transformation from a hawkish, morally driven politician to a Trump loyalist has stunned many. In 2016, Rubio and Trump had vastly different worldviews. Rubio believed in American exceptionalism and moral leadership, while Trump focused on self-interest and deal-making.
Today, Rubio has largely adopted Trump’s approach. This shift has made him a target for critics who see him as abandoning his principles.
The Bigger Picture in Trump’s Administration
The situation with Rubio and Miller reflects larger trends in the Trump administration. Staffing decisions increasingly prioritize loyalty over expertise. This has created tension within the government, particularly at the State Department and NSC.
Meanwhile, real-estate tycoon Steve Witkoff has emerged as a key player in foreign policy. Trump appointed him as a special envoy for overseas crises, a role typically held by experienced diplomats.
What This Means for U.S. Foreign Policy
Rubio’s leadership style and potential handover to Miller suggest a continuation of Trump’s chaotic approach to foreign policy. Experts warn that this could weaken the U.S. on the global stage.
“The staffing at both State and the Council now depends relatively less on expertise and more on fealty to POTUS,” Kluth writes. This shift has alarmed career diplomats and foreign policy experts.
As the situation unfolds, one thing is clear: Rubio’s role in the administration is both powerful and precarious. His ability to balance his responsibilities while maintaining Trump’s trust will be closely watched in the coming months.