Senate confirms Marco Rubio as secretary of state

Move secures the first member of Trump's Cabinet

20250121 Marco Rubio

Sen. Marco Rubio, a nominee for Secretary of State, attends the 60th Presidential Inauguration in the Rotunda of the U.S. Capitol in Washington on Jan. 20. © AP

WASHINGTON (AP) -- The Senate quickly confirmed Marco Rubio as secretary of state Monday, voting unanimously to give U.S. President Donald Trump the first member of his new Cabinet on Inauguration Day.

Rubio, the Republican senator from Florida, is among the least controversial of Trump's nominees and vote was decisive, 99-0. Another pick, John Ratcliffe for CIA director, is also expected to have a swift vote. Action on others, including former combat veteran and Fox News host Pete Hegseth for defense secretary, is expected later in the week.

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