Florida Senator Marco Rubio has been announced as Donald Trump’s nomination for U.S. Secretary of State in 2025. Rubio is a prominent figure in U.S. foreign policy, and has been a sponsor of USAID bills focused on localisation.
As a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Rubio has been a vocal advocate for a strong U.S. response to global crises. Recently, he has been actively involved in discussions surrounding the conflict in Gaza, expressing firm support for Israel and a robust U.S. role in regional stability. His foreign policy positions often emphasize security and strategic partnerships, which may shape future U.S. engagement in conflict zones and critical regions.
Rubio has also been a key sponsor of the New Partnerships Initiative (NPI) at USAID, a bipartisan effort aimed at empowering local organizations in developing countries and bringing new partners into the aid program. The NPI legislation, co-sponsored with Senator Tim Kaine, seeks to reduce reliance on large contractors and increase collaboration with grassroots and local organizations. This approach aligns with growing trends in the aid sector that prioritize local capacity-building and ownership, and Rubio’s leadership could lead to further expansion of this model within U.S. development programs.
In the Pacific, Rubio has consistently supported policies that reinforce U.S. alliances, particularly as a counterbalance to China’s growing influence in the region. His advocacy for stronger ties with nations such as Australia, Japan, and Pacific Island countries suggests that, if confirmed, he could drive more targeted U.S. aid and security partnerships in this area.
As for the future of U.S. development aid, Rubio’s stance on USAID reforms will be critical. There has been little indication of who the new leadership at USAID may be under a new administration. Given Rubio’s legislative focus on local partnerships, any future USAID leadership may likely align with these priorities.