Sen. Marco Rubio in lead for Secretary of State role, signaling tougher stance on Cuban regime

Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) is reportedly in the lead for the shortlist as President-elect Donald Trump's Secretary of State, according sources familiar with the matter.

ADN learned Thursday night that Rubio, a prominent Cuban American and influential voice on U.S. foreign policy, is very interested in the potential opportunity.

His appointment could signify a more aggressive stance against authoritarian regimes in Latin America, especially those in Cuba and Venezuela, with potential escalations in sanctions and international coalitions aimed at isolating the two communist states. 

For the Cuban regime, Rubio’s leadership in U.S. foreign policy could also mean intensified scrutiny and fewer openings for diplomatic relief. As an outspoken critic of Cuba’s communist regime, the Florida-based senator has consistently advocated for stronger sanctions, human rights accountability, and support for democracy on the island. 

Orlando Gutiérrez Boronat, secretary general of the Assembly of the Cuban Resistance, told ADN that “the appointment of Senator Marco Rubio would represent a historic achievement for the Cuban nation and for the cause of freedom and democracy in the Hemisphere.”

While Rubio has  not explicitly confirmed his interest in a specific role in the new administration, he said he had not ruled out a shift in his career trajectory if it meant he could serve the country in a higher capacity.

In a recent post-election interview with CNN, the Florida-based senator expressed his ongoing commitment to public service. 

“I am always interested in serving this country,” he said. “I haven't had any set conversations with anybody in the Trump administration. Either way, I plan to work with them, whether it's in the Senate, which is an important place to be, or in some other capacity.”

Sources from Trump’s transition team confirmed to ADN that Rubio is under serious consideration for the top diplomatic position along with Sen. Bill Hagerty who served as Trump's Ambassador to Japan and Richard Grennell, Trump's former Director of National Intelligence who also served as his Ambassador to Germany.

Rubio, who was a strong contender for vice president in Trump’s second administration, has been on the radar for Secretary of State for some time, with many viewing him as a formidable leader who could help redefine U.S. foreign policy, particularly in the Western Hemisphere.

Rubio’s Cuban heritage gives him special significance in the cause for Cuba’s freedom. His firm stance against the Havana regime has made him one of the most targeted Cuban American politicians, subject to constant discrediting efforts from the political discourse and state media of the Cuban regime.

Currently serving as the vice chairman of the Select Committee on Intelligence and a senior member of the Committee on Foreign Relations, Rubio has played a significant role in national security initiatives. His expertise and track record in intelligence and foreign affairs make him a strong candidate for the diplomatic position, with sources noting his continued focus on policies that reinforce U.S. security.

Another contender for the Secretary of State position is former national security adviser Robert O’Brien, who has remained active in the foreign policy landscape since his departure from the Trump administration, co-founding the policy advisory firm American Global Strategies.