Rubio Has ‘Serious Concerns’ About Exxon CEO Tillerson’s Nomination

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Shortly after Donald Trump formally announced that he will nominate ExxonMobil CEO Rex Tillerson to be secretary of state, Sen. Marco Rubio (R-FL) issued a statement signaling that he may not support Tillerson’s confirmation.

“While Rex Tillerson is a respected businessman, I have serious concerns about his nomination,” Rubio said in a Tuesday morning statement. “The next secretary of state must be someone who views the world with moral clarity, is free of potential conflicts of interest, has a clear sense of America’s interests, and will be a forceful advocate for America’s foreign policy goals to the president, within the administration, and on the world stage. I look forward to learning more about his record and his views.‎ I will do my part to ensure he receives a full and fair but also thorough hearing before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.”

Rubio previously expressed skepticism over Tillerson in a tweet over the weekend, citing Tillerson’s cozy relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Rubio is a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, which will oversee Tillerson’s confirmation hearing.

Sen. John McCain (R-AZ) and Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC) have also indicated they may oppose Tillerson’s nomination over his ties to Russia.

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