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Marco Rubio Adds a New Title Under Trump: Interim National Security Adviser

The New York Times's profile
The New York Times
5h ago

Marco Rubio has been appointed to four significant government roles under President Trump, including Secretary of State, Acting Administrator of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), Acting Archivist for the National Archives and Records Administration, and Interim National Security Adviser. This unprecedented accumulation of titles has sparked concerns about his ability to effectively manage multiple high-profile positions simultaneously. His appointments come amidst a backdrop of controversial administrative changes, including the firing of officials and restructuring of agencies, such as the reduction of USAID. Despite the trust and close relationship he shares with President Trump and Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, questions arise about potential conflicts of interest and the feasibility of fulfilling these roles' demands. The situation draws parallels to historical and international examples of multiple role holders, though Rubio surpasses even prominent figures like Henry Kissinger and Xi Jinping in the number of top titles held concurrently.

Marco Rubio Adds a New Title Under Trump: Interim National Security Adviser

Marco Rubio, a former senator from Florida, has been appointed to four major government positions: Secretary of State, Acting Administrator of USAID, Acting Archivist for the National Archives, and Interim National Security Adviser to President Trump. This makes him a unique figure in the U.S. government, surpassing both historical domestic precedents and international leaders like Xi Jinping in terms of accumulated titles.

The appointments have raised concerns regarding his capacity to effectively manage multiple high-stakes roles, especially under a president who often bypasses traditional governmental operations. These concerns are echoed by watchdog groups highlighting potential conflicts of interest, particularly in his role as archivist overseeing agencies he also leads.

Rubio's rapid accumulation of roles began with his confirmation as Secretary of State on January 20, the same day Trump was inaugurated. Subsequent positions were acquired amid controversial circumstances, such as the firing of the previous head archivist and the substantial downsizing of USAID, a process he endorsed.

His close working relationship with Trump and Chief of Staff Susie Wiles is evident, yet the practicality of his new responsibilities, including questions about his compensation and time management, remains uncertain. Comparisons are drawn to Henry Kissinger's dual roles in the 1970s, which were deemed unsuccessful.

The situation has sparked discussions about the implications of Rubio's roles, with some commentators humorously speculating about his potential for further titles, such as becoming pope. The commentary underscores the perceived implausibility and novelty of his current appointments.

Rubio's involvement in the reduction of USAID, alongside figures like Elon Musk and Pete Marocco, has led to significant layoffs and contract terminations, further complicating his administrative portfolio. He plans to integrate remnants of the agency into the State Department, maintaining his title as USAID administrator.

The Senate confirmed Rubio's role as Secretary of State unanimously, but his subsequent roles were assumed amid administrative turmoil, reflecting a broader narrative of rapid and controversial government restructuring under the Trump administration.

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