In a turn of events Monday evening, the Senate Foreign Relations Committee approved Mike Pompeo to be the next secretary of state. Typically, a nominee for the secretary of state receives all favorable votes, but in this case Pompeo was reported with unfavorable recommendations.
The turning point for Pompeo was when opponent, Senator Rand Paul, declared his support. “President Trump believes that Iraq was a mistake, that regime change has destabilized the region and that we must end our involvement with Afghanistan,” Paul commented. “Having received assurances from President Trump and Director Pompeo that he agrees with the president on these important issues, I have decided to support his nomination.” Paul, a Republican from Kentucky, bowed out after receiving pressure from President Trump.
Pompeo received support from two moderate Democrats. Although he is gaining support, Pompeo has yet to secure his confirmation.
“The fact that they are pushing forward with the nomination even though a lot of people are opposed shows that the president is willing to sacrifice how people feel based on who he thinks will be loyal to him,” senior Isabella Holland commented.
There is fear from supporters that he will acquire a bruised standing after the rebuke from the committee. Pompeo is possibly one of the most qualified for the position with his résumé and history.
“Hard to believe Obstructionists may vote against Mike Pompeo for Secretary of State. The Dems will not approve hundreds of good people, including the Ambassador to Germany,” President Trump tweeted out. “They are maxing out the time on approval process for all, never happened before. Need more Republicans!”
Democrats are stating that their problem with Pompeo is more than just a disliking for the president’s foreign policy. They point out that he has made comments that betray prejudice about the LBGTQ community and also Muslims. Pompeo tried to change these statements by saying he will protect gay rights and rescue the Iran nuclear deal.
“The committee is expected to reject his nomination because every Democrat is opposed to him, but somehow his nomination isn’t dead,” senior Cooper Edwards stated.
Some are trying to keep an open mind about the possibility of Pompeo, but lots of people are divided with their decisions.
