WASHINGTON — Herschel Walker, a prominent figure in football who previously campaigned unsuccessfully for a U.S. Senate position in Georgia, has been nominated by President-elect Donald Trump to serve as ambassador to the Bahamas.

Trump revealed the nomination on Tuesday through a post on Truth Social, his social media platform. He lauded Walker as “a successful businessman, philanthropist, former Heisman Trophy winner.”

A member of the Republican Party, Walker aimed to defeat Democratic Senator Raphael Warnock in the election held two years prior, bolstered by Trump’s endorsement. His well-known reputation, stemming from his football days at the University of Georgia and his career in the NFL, gave him a significant advantage. However, he faced a challenging campaign, riddled with severe allegations, including accusations that he funded two former girlfriends’ abortions while advocating for a national ban on the procedure.

Walker actively supported Trump during the recent election cycle in Georgia.

In order to secure the ambassador position, Walker’s nomination must receive approval from the Republican-controlled Senate next year.

On the same day, Trump also announced the nomination of Nicole McGraw, an art collector, as the U.S. ambassador to Croatia.

Trump’s selections for diplomatic roles have included numerous loyal supporters. He appointed Charles Kushner, father of his son-in-law Jared Kushner, as ambassador to France. Additionally, Representative Elise Stefanik from New York, recognized as one of Trump’s staunchest allies in the House, was nominated as the ambassador to the United Nations.

Moreover, another Georgian, former Senator David Perdue, was chosen to be ambassador to China. Perdue lost his Senate seat to Democrat Jon Ossoff four years ago and unsuccessfully challenged Georgia Governor Brian Kemp in a primary in 2022.

Former senator Kelly Loeffler from Georgia was also selected by Trump for a position, as he appointed her to head the Small Business Administration.