Schatz Statement on Confirmation of Marco Rubio as Secretary of State

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, released the following statement after U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) was confirmed by a vote of 99-0 to serve as Secretary of State.

“Having served with Senator Marco Rubio on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, I know he has the experience to advance American interests around the world.

“During the confirmation process, Senator Rubio recognized the importance of deepening our relationships with Pacific Island countries and other Indo-Pacific allies and partners. He also agreed with the need to reassess key elements of the United States’ approach to North Korea.

“Although we have many differing views, Senator Rubio is respected on both sides of the aisle for his serious and principled approach to threats and opportunities alike, and that is why I voted to confirm him.”

###