Florida Republican Senator Marco Rubio was confirmed as President Donald Trump’s Secretary of State by the Senate with a unanimous 99-0 vote. Rubio, a well-known China hawk and critic of Cuba, is set to play a major role in advancing Trump’s foreign policy agenda, including efforts to halt the conflict in Ukraine, counter China’s global influence, and negotiate a ceasefire in Gaza. Democrats helped streamline the confirmation process, showcasing bipartisanship, following a recommendation by the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.

Rubio, who has served in the Senate since 2011, previously ran for president in 2016 and was considered for the vice-presidential spot in 2024. Governor Ron DeSantis appointed Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody to replace Rubio in the Senate.

On the domestic front, Trump plans a series of aggressive executive actions aimed at fulfilling his key campaign promises. These include securing the southern border through a national emergency declaration, increasing military cooperation with Homeland Security, and targeting criminal cartels by designating them as foreign terrorist organizations. Trump also intends to reinstate the “Remain in Mexico” policy and push for new border wall construction.

In terms of energy policy, Trump aims to “fully unleash” Alaskan resources and address various energy sectors, reversing Biden’s energy restrictions. Additionally, he plans to overhaul the federal bureaucracy, reassert presidential control over the federal workforce, and ensure government employees comply with executive orders. Trump’s agenda includes prioritizing national security, energy independence, and restoring freedoms such as free speech while curbing government censorship.