Duval Times

U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) has taken a stand by placing a hold on four nominees put forward by President Joe Biden for the U.S. Department of State. Despite objections from several Republican Senators and concerns raised during the vetting process, the nominees were reported out of committee.

Rubio expressed his reservations about the nominees, stating, "America must be represented by qualified individuals who are devoted to defending both our nation, our interests, and our values." He further emphasized his opposition by highlighting that individuals who are "Enablers of the Chinese Communist Party, individuals who fail to take accountability for their actions, leaders unwilling to protect their employees, and individuals who fail to provide meaningful information to the Committee have no business representing our nation."

The "hold" placed by Senator Rubio will delay the swift confirmation of the following nominees:

- Robert Forden, nominated to serve as Ambassador to Cambodia;

- Margaret Taylor, nominated to serve as Legal Advisor to the Department of State;

- Erik Woodhouse, nominated to serve as Head of the Office of Sanctions Coordination; and,

- Dr. Michael Sfraga, nominated to serve as Ambassador-at-Large for Arctic Affairs.

Rubio's objection to these nominees reflects the importance of having individuals who align with the values and interests of the nation in key diplomatic and advisory roles within the State Department.