In a significant Cabinet shuffle during his second term, President Donald Trump announced on Thursday that he is nominating Michael Waltz to serve as the next U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations. This decision comes as part of a broader effort to strengthen national security and foreign relations. In a post on his conservative social media platform, Trump expressed confidence in Waltz’s capabilities, stating, “From his time in uniform on the battlefield, in Congress, and as my National Security Advisor, Mike Waltz has worked hard to put our Nation's Interests first.”
Additionally, Secretary of State Marco Rubio will temporarily step into the role of National Security Advisor while maintaining his responsibilities at the State Department. Trump emphasized the importance of these roles, asserting that together they will work tirelessly to “Make America, and the World, SAFE AGAIN.” This dual appointment highlights the administration's commitment to national security amid ongoing global challenges.
Reports from ABC News earlier on Thursday indicated that Waltz was anticipated to leave his position as National Security Advisor. This change comes in light of recent frustrations expressed by President Trump regarding Waltz, particularly following a controversial incident where Waltz inadvertently added a reporter to a secure chat discussing a U.S. military strike on Houthi rebels in Yemen. Waltz acknowledged Trump's announcement on X (formerly Twitter), stating, “I'm deeply honored to continue my service to President Trump and our great nation.”
Waltz’s nomination as U.N. Ambassador will require approval from the Senate, and he is expected to face rigorous questioning during confirmation hearings. As President Trump departed the White House for a trip to Alabama, he did not address reporters' inquiries regarding Waltz, indicating the sensitive nature of the upcoming confirmation process.
During a press briefing on Thursday, State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce learned of Rubio’s new interim role in real time, responding to reporters' questions about the potential for Rubio to take on this responsibility. Bruce praised Rubio for his multifaceted experience and noted that this development was not entirely unexpected, saying, “It’s like hanging onto a freaking bullet train.” This comment reflects the fast-paced and often unpredictable nature of the current political landscape.
Waltz was previously seen conducting a Fox News interview at the White House on Thursday morning but did not attend the subsequent prayer event. He had participated in a Cabinet meeting the day before, where he praised Trump’s leadership and strength on the global stage during his first 100 days in office.
In the aftermath of the March Signal incident, which raised concerns regarding security protocols, Trump publicly defended Waltz, stating that he had learned a valuable lesson. In an interview with The Atlantic, Trump reiterated that Waltz was doing fine despite the scrutiny and suggested that both Waltz and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth were safe in their positions.
As Michael Waltz prepares for his nomination and Marco Rubio steps into the role of National Security Advisor, the Trump administration is poised to navigate complex international relations with renewed vigor. The upcoming weeks will undoubtedly be crucial as these leaders work to address pressing global issues and uphold the interests of the United States on the world stage.
