Photo credit: www.foxnews.com
On Tuesday, the Senate confirmed two diplomatic nominees put forward by President Donald Trump, while awaiting a crucial vote for another nominee in the evening.
Investor Tom Barrack has been appointed as ambassador to Turkey, with Warren Stephens set to represent the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland. Both confirmations saw Barrack pass with a vote of 60-36, and Stephens confirmed with 59-39.
In a later session, Tilman Fertitta, owner of the Houston Rockets and CEO of Landry’s Restaurants, is expected to receive a vote for his ambassadorship to Italy and San Marino.
Fertitta is known as a significant GOP donor and has expressed admiration for Trump’s economic policies. In an earlier discussion with CNBC during Trump’s first term, he remarked that the President was doing “a fantastic job for the economy,” highlighting low unemployment rates and thriving businesses.
While often focusing on economic issues rather than political stances, Fertitta praised Trump’s insights into America’s driving forces.
Barrack’s selection reflects both his longstanding relationship with Trump and his prior experience in government, having served as an undersecretary in the Reagan Administration. His expertise in energy policy, particularly regarding Middle Eastern oil, positions him well for the ambassadorship in Turkey.
Fluent in Arabic, Barrack is expected to navigate diplomatic relations effectively. His ties with Trump date back to when he assisted with financing Trump’s ownership of the Plaza Hotel, a notable venture that also gained media attention due to its mention in the film “Home Alone 2.”
Beyond his support for Trump’s presidential campaign, Barrack raised substantial funds for the inaugural events in 2017.
Stephens, who leads a family bank with a presence in London, is an avid supporter of the Tottenham Hotspur soccer team, a personal interest that aligns with his upcoming role in representing U.S. interests in the UK. His political contributions have largely favored Republican candidates, including significant donations to figures like former Senators and Arkansas governors.
The upcoming appointment of Stephens will see him acting as a crucial intermediary for Trump in London, especially as relationships with the current Labour Party leadership under Prime Minister Keir Starmer can be politically divergent.
Fertitta’s confirmation and the broader implications of these diplomatic appointments reflect ongoing dynamics in U.S.-international relations and the intertwining of business and politics.
Source
www.foxnews.com