Rubio tells Senate committee the "top priority" of State Department will be U.S. in confirmation hearing

Category: Politics

Sen. Marco Rubio, nominated as Secretary of State by President-elect Donald Trump, emphasized the need for a strong U.S. stance against China during his confirmation hearing. He described China as a significant adversary and highlighted the importance of U.S.-China relations in the 21st century. Rubio also addressed various global challenges, including the war in Ukraine and U.S. relations with Cuba, while defending Trump's foreign policy approach. His confirmation is expected to receive bipartisan support.

Keywords: Marco Rubio, Secretary of State, U.S.-China relations

Source: CBS News

Update At: 1/16/2025

Related Sources

Congressional Dems blast DOGE interest in NOAA

Congressional Democrats are investigating reports of personnel from the Department of Government Efficiency accessing NOAA's internal systems to evaluate compliance with an order to eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion programs. Concerns have been raised about the impact on NOAA's scientific and regulatory functions.

E&E News

50501 movement makes its way to Fargo in anti-Trump protest

Protesters gathered outside the Federal Post Office in Downtown Fargo as part of the nationwide 50501 movement, expressing their support for birthright citizenship and dissatisfaction with President Trump's policies. The protest highlighted concerns over immigration rights and the ongoing debate about citizenship laws, with participants advocating for the rights of marginalized communities.

Valley News Live

Veterans, activists unite in Arizona's 50501 protest against Trump, Musk and Project 2025

Hundreds protested at the Arizona Capitol against President Trump's Project 2025, advocating for immigrant and LGBTQ rights. The grassroots movement, part of a nationwide effort, emphasized the importance of democracy and accountability from elected officials. Protesters expressed concerns over the influence of billionaires like Elon Musk and the impact of recent legislation on immigrant communities.

Arizona Mirror

Protesters come together against Trump and Project 2025 at Oregon State Capitol

Around 400 people protested at the Oregon State Capitol against President Trump and Project 2025, holding signs and chanting for democracy and human rights. The grassroots 50501 Movement organized the event, which saw diverse participation, including families and marginalized communities. Protesters expressed concerns over the administration's policies targeting various groups and vowed to continue their activism.

Statesman Journal

South Carolina Rep. Nancy Mace repeatedly uses anti-trans slur during hearing

South Carolina Rep. Nancy Mace used a slur referring to transgender people during a House hearing, sparking controversy and a parliamentary inquiry from Virginia Rep. Gerry Connolly. Mace's comments were part of her ongoing opposition to transgender rights, which she has made central to her political agenda as she considers a run for governor in 2026. Despite backlash, Mace continued to use the slur in subsequent interviews and social media posts, aligning herself with right-wing voters and the Trump administration's anti-trans policies.

Spectrum News NY1

Nancy Mace repeatedly uses ‘tranny’ during hearing

Rep. Nancy Mace used the term 'tranny' during a House Oversight Committee hearing while advocating for a resolution to restrict biological males from female restrooms. This occurred after Rep. Sarah McBride became the first transgender woman in Congress. Mace's comments were challenged by Rep. Gerry Connolly, who highlighted the term as a slur. Mace, a rape survivor, is pushing for similar bans in federal buildings, arguing against transgender participation in women's sports. President Trump also signed an executive order to keep transgender athletes out of female leagues.

Colorado Springs Gazette

Connolly challenges Mace over usage of transgender slur

Rep. Gerry Connolly criticized Rep. Nancy Mace for using a transgender slur during a House Oversight hearing, emphasizing the need for decorum and respect in discussions about LGBTQ issues. Mace has been advocating for policies to restrict transgender women from using women's restrooms.

The Hill

Nancy Mace repeatedly shouts anti-trans slur in House hearing: 'I don't really care‘

During a chaotic House hearing, Representative Nancy Mace repeatedly used an anti-trans slur, prompting condemnation from fellow lawmakers. Mace's remarks sparked outrage as they were seen as offensive to the LGBTQ community. Despite her previous support for LGBTQ rights, her recent comments have drawn criticism and highlighted a shift in her stance on transgender issues.

The Independent

Rep. Nancy Mace repeatedly uses transgender slur during hearing

South Carolina Representative Nancy Mace faced backlash for using a slur against transgender individuals during a House Oversight Committee hearing. Her comments, made while questioning witnesses about USAID expenditures, were condemned by Democratic ranking member Gerald Connolly. Mace, known for her anti-transgender stance, has previously introduced legislation to restrict transgender women's access to restrooms. Despite claiming to support transgender rights, her recent remarks have sparked controversy and highlighted her evolving views on LGBTQ issues.

Newsweek

Protests against Trump, Project 2025 held in Mass., NH

Hundreds protested outside the Massachusetts State House against President Trump's early actions, part of a national movement under the hashtags #buildtheresistance and #50501. The protests aimed to oppose Project 2025 and advocate for democracy, with personal stories highlighting the impact of Trump's policies on individuals. Similar protests occurred in New England, while some events were canceled due to safety concerns.

NBC10 Boston