Secretary of State Marco Rubio defended the recent appointment of a former Trump administration official to a key position at the State Department. The appointee, who had previously been dismissed from his role in the administration, had attended a conference known to be frequented by white nationalists, sparking some controversy surrounding his return to government service.
(Marko Rubio during press in Guatemala city)
When pressed by reporters about past allegations involving Beattie’s history of making white nationalist comments, Rubio chose not to respond directly. Instead, he focused on the individual’s qualifications for the new role, stating, “He’s someone who was brought on board because he’s strongly committed to ending the censorship programs that were being operated out of the State Department, which can no longer continue and will no longer continue.“
Rubio made these remarks while speaking to the press in Guatemala, emphasizing that the administration’s priority was to stop what they saw as biased or politically motivated censorship efforts that had been taking place within the department.
(Darren Beattie)
Beattie has now been appointed to serve as the acting undersecretary for public diplomacy and public affairs, a position which involves overseeing the department’s global messaging and outreach efforts. Despite the controversy, Rubio’s defense suggests that the focus will be on his commitment to reshaping the State Department’s approach to public engagement and communication moving forward.
About The Author
