Source: REUTERS
Reports that President-elect Donald Trump may be considering Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) for the position of secretary of state have ignited a “MAGA backlash” among Trump’s most ardent supporters. According to a recent Politico report, Trump allies and “MAGA-minded” influencers — including former Trump Director of National Intelligence Ric Grenell’s close supporters — are expressing strong concerns about the potential choice.
Among the skeptics, far-right activist Laura Loomer voiced her discontent on X, formerly known as Twitter, questioning the sudden flow of information from inside Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate. “Why are people inside Mar-a-Lago leaking Trump’s possible cabinet picks to the media?” Loomer posted. “Not a good sign that things are being leaked already.”
Conservative comedian Dave Smith also weighed in, calling Rubio a “disaster.” Comparing the move to an even more controversial pick, Smith said, “Might as well give Liz Cheney the State Department. Awful sign.” Many conservative Trump supporters appear to share Smith’s sentiment, fearing Rubio’s selection may signal a deviation from Trump’s core agenda.
Despite the uproar, Trump’s team has neither confirmed nor denied Rubio’s potential role in the new administration. Trump’s office has not responded to Politico’s requests for comment, leaving room for speculation about whether this choice reflects Trump’s actual intentions.
Meanwhile, Grenell’s supporters remain hopeful that their candidate could still be in the running for the role. “We are still waiting on the decision from President Trump and the campaign leadership on what their official decision is,” a Grenell ally told Politico. “What we have been hearing is that no decision has been made.” This uncertainty has led to continued support from Grenell’s advocates, who have openly urged Trump to consider Grenell’s foreign policy expertise.
Further fueling skepticism, conservative activist Charlie Kirk warned his 4 million followers not to trust reports until an official announcement is made directly by Trump. “Folks, word of wisdom,” Kirk wrote. “If Trump hasn’t confirmed it on Truth [Social], don’t jump to conclusions and don’t believe everything you see.”
Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-FL) echoed similar doubts, advising her X followers, “Apparently there hasn’t been an SOS pick yet,” in response to rumors swirling around Rubio’s potential appointment.
As tensions rise among Trump’s base, the debate over who will serve as secretary of state underscores broader divisions within the movement regarding loyalty and ideological alignment. The controversy demonstrates the importance Trump’s supporters place on cabinet appointments that reflect “America First” principles, and it may push Trump to clarify his position sooner rather than later.
