Rubio’s Appointment as Secretary of State Signals Shift in US Latin America Policy

The selection of Senator Marco Rubio as President-elect Donald Trump’s Secretary of State signals a dramatic shift in US foreign policy toward Latin America, The Associated Press reports.

Rubio, a Cuban-American Republican from Florida, brings a deep-seated anti-communist ideology and a history of hardline stances on regional issues to the position, potentially reshaping decades of US engagement with its southern neighbors.

Rubio’s background, shaped by his upbringing amongst Cuban exiles in Miami, has instilled in him a strong aversion to communism. This perspective, coupled with his extensive experience on the Senate Foreign Relations and Intelligence Committees, positions him to significantly influence US policy in the region. For years, Latin America has received relatively little attention from Washington, even as adversaries like Russia, China, and Iran have increased their influence. Rubio’s appointment suggests a renewed focus on what was once considered America’s “backyard.”

However, his hardline reputation, support for Trump’s immigration policies, and often polarizing rhetoric are likely to create friction with some Latin American allies. His views contrast sharply with the Biden administration’s emphasis on multilateral diplomacy and dialogue.

Rubio’s priorities are expected to center on Mexico, particularly regarding trade, drug trafficking, and migration. While once a proponent of immigration reform, Rubio has since become a staunch advocate for stricter border security and deportation. His relationship with Mexico is likely to be strained, given his harsh criticism of former President Andrés Manuel López Obrador and his anticipated less-than-amicable approach with current President Claudia Sheinbaum.

His foreign policy approach will likely involve a more assertive stance towards countries perceived as aligning with US adversaries or failing to support Israel. Rubio’s actions in the past demonstrate this, including his outspoken criticism of leftist leaders in countries such as Chile, Colombia, and Venezuela.

Rubio’s influence on Venezuela policy under the Trump administration was particularly significant. His involvement in bringing the wife of jailed Venezuelan dissident Leopoldo López to the White House in 2017 dramatically elevated Venezuela’s profile on the US foreign policy agenda. The subsequent imposition of sanctions and even discussion of military intervention, while popular with some exiles, ultimately exacerbated the humanitarian crisis and arguably strengthened the position of President Nicolás Maduro.

Experts offer mixed perspectives on the impact of Rubio’s appointment. While some, like Carlos Trujillo, Rubio’s close friend and former US ambassador to the Organization of American States, highlight Rubio’s extensive network and deep understanding of the region, others, such as Michael Shifter of the Inter-American Dialogue, predict a more conciliatory approach from Trump towards Maduro than previously anticipated, potentially lessening Rubio’s immediate impact.

The appointment of Representative Michael Waltz, another vocal critic of Maduro, as Trump’s national security advisor further underscores the administration’s hardline stance toward Venezuela and its allies in Cuba and Nicaragua.