Marco Rubio Sworn in as Secretary of State, Emphasizes Faith and Foreign Policy Goals
In a significant moment for U.S. diplomacy, Marco Rubio was officially sworn in as Secretary of State on Tuesday, January 23, 2025. The former Florida senator, who has long been a prominent figure in American politics, concluded his swearing-in ceremony with a heartfelt expression of gratitude to Jesus Christ, highlighting his faith as a guiding force in his new role.
Rubio, 53, took the podium at the State Department, where he reflected on the importance of faith in his life and work. “I want to end by thanking Almighty God and my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ,” he stated, emphasizing that faith is the “singular purpose of our lives” and the most crucial priority. He attributed his new position to what he described as God’s blessings, setting a tone of humility and purpose as he embarks on this pivotal chapter in his career.
In addition to his spiritual reflections, Rubio laid out his vision for U.S. foreign policy. He reiterated a commitment to strengthening the nation, ensuring safety, and promoting prosperity through diplomatic efforts. “Everything we do must be justified by the answer to one of three questions: Does it make us stronger, does it make us safer, and does it make us more prosperous?” he declared, outlining a clear framework for decision-making at the State Department.
Rubio’s journey to this role has been shaped by a rich tapestry of experiences. Born into a Catholic family, he was baptized as an infant and later attended Mormon services for a brief period before returning to his Catholic roots. Today, he also participates in Protestant Evangelical services at Christ Fellowship in Miami with his wife, Jeanette, a former pro cheerleader. This diverse religious background informs his worldview and approach to leadership.
Having spent the last 14 years as a key member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Rubio is no stranger to the complexities of global diplomacy. His expertise spans critical regions, including the Indo-Pacific, the Middle East, and Latin America. Known for his strong stance on NATO and his opposition to Russian influence, Rubio has positioned himself as a hawk on security issues, ready to tackle the challenges that lie ahead.
Interestingly, Rubio’s relationship with President Trump has had its ups and downs. Despite their differences, he was one of three prominent GOP figures advocating for a more moderate approach to abortion during the 2024 presidential election. In July, he suggested removing a national abortion ban from the GOP platform, arguing that it should reflect the views of the party’s nominee and the realities voters face. “Our platform has to reflect our nominee, and our nominee’s position happens to be one grounded in reality,” he explained, emphasizing the importance of allowing voters to decide on such contentious issues at the state level.
As Rubio steps into his new role, the eyes of the nation will be on him. His blend of faith, experience, and a pragmatic approach to foreign policy may well shape the future of U.S. diplomacy in a rapidly changing world. With a commitment to making America stronger, safer, and more prosperous, Rubio is poised to navigate the complexities of international relations while staying true to his values.
