Leader Schumer Floor Remarks Ahead Of The Senate’s Vote To Confirm Marco Rubio As Secretary Of State

Washington, D.C. – Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) today spoke on the Senate floor to emphasize how the confirmation of Senator Rubio as Secretary of State underscores the importance of a thorough and proper vetting process for nominees. Below are Senator Schumer’s remarks:

Tonight the Senate will vote on the confirmation of Senator Rubio to serve as the next Secretary of State.

Democrats have been very clear about our approach to President Trump’s nominees. We will neither rubber stamp nominees we feel are grossly unqualified, nor will we reflexively oppose nominees that deserve serious consideration. Senator Rubio is an example of a qualified nominee we think should be confirmed quickly. Earlier today, he was unanimously reported out of Committee, with full support from Democrats, and he should be quickly confirmed here on the floor.

So today, I will vote yes on Senator Rubio. While I certainly do not agree with many of Senator Rubio’s positions, in this instance, it is important for the new Administration to have a Senate-confirmed Secretary of State as soon as possible. So I will vote yes. Republicans did the same with Secretary Clinton during the first Obama Administration. It was appropriate then, and it is appropriate now. I will vote yes.

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