President Donald Trump made a significant announcement Thursday, nominating national security adviser Mike Waltz as the new Ambassador to the United Nations. In the interim, Secretary of State Marco Rubio will assume Waltz’s duties, marking a notable shift within the Trump administration’s national security team.
The shake-up follows reports that Waltz and his deputy will leave their positions. Waltz has faced scrutiny recently after mistakenly adding The Atlantic’s editor-in-chief to a Signal chat intended for military planning discussions. Despite the controversy, Trump praised Waltz’s service, highlighting his past accomplishments both in the military and Congress. “I am pleased to announce that I will be nominating Mike Waltz to be the next United States Ambassador to the United Nations,” Trump stated on social media. “In the interim, Secretary of State Marco Rubio will serve as National Security Advisor.” Trump emphasized their collective efforts to enhance national and global security.
There is historical precedent for one person to hold both roles, as seen when Henry Kissinger served as both Secretary of State and National Security Advisor from 1973 to 1975. However, it’s uncertain how long Rubio will hold the dual position amid pressing foreign policy challenges, including tensions in Ukraine and Gaza, Iran’s nuclear ambitions, and complexities of the global economy amid Trump’s tariff policies.
Waltz’s unintended inclusion of a journalist in a military strategy chat drew harsh criticism. Vice President JD Vance, however, countered perceptions that Waltz was dismissed, pointing out that Trump’s endorsement with the U.N. nomination demonstrates the contrary. Originally, Trump had considered Rep. Elise Stefanik for the U.N. ambassador role but withdrew her to maintain voting margins in the U.S. House. Waltz expressed honor in continuing his service, anticipating a Senate confirmation hearing due to his nomination.
Senator Chris Coons, a prominent Democrat on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, indicated Waltz should be ready for an intense confirmation process. Trump’s potential candidates for filling Waltz’s role as national security adviser include senior aides like Steve Witkoff, Richard Grenell, Sebastian Gorka, and Michael Anton. Witkoff, although key in negotiations relating to Russia-Ukraine and Iran, prefers his current envoy role rather than the national security adviser post.
Richard Grenell, an influential figure with a diverse background, is another contender, known for his diplomatic engagement in various international issues and a potential gubernatorial run in California. The decision awaits as Trump evaluates the best fit for his administration. Waltz acknowledged his mistake in the Signal chat issue, claiming unfamiliarity with how the journalist ended up in the group. Throughout this controversy, Trump and his team supported Waltz, denying any breach of classified information.
Criticism from figures like Laura Loomer, who advocates staunch loyalty to Trump’s agenda, has intensified on social media. Loomer seemed to claim credit for Waltz’s potential exit, underscoring internal political dynamics within the administration. She urged for further staff changes.
Commentators such as retired Navy Rear Adm. Mark Montgomery interpreted Trump’s U.N. nomination for Waltz as a strategic move, providing a “soft landing” after a turbulent period. Waltz’s tenure was marred by conflict with figures attacking his conservative stances, particularly on Iran and Russia.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s involvement in the Signal app controversy adds to the Pentagon’s current challenges. Accusations regarding his conduct align with ongoing investigations into his communication security practices. Despite such tensions, Trump maintains his support for Hegseth, underscoring the administration’s confidence in its current leadership amid scrutiny from various political factions.