President-Elect Donald Trump has selected Governor Nikki Haley as the next US Ambassador to the United Nations. Haley is the first female appointed to a top position in Trump's administration. The two have had a tense relationship, as she first supported Marco Rubio then Ted Cruz for the Presidency. Russ McKinney reports from the Capital.
Trump cited Haley's experience with economic development, negotiating with international businesses, and ability to unite people as qualities valuable to a US Ambassador to the United Nations. He adds, "she is also a proven deal maker, and we look to be making plenty of deals."
Haley released a statement this morning confirming that she would accept.
Nevertheless, her official appointment is contingent on confirmation by the Senate. Many experts believe her lack of foreign policy experience will attract skepticism. She was a state lawmaker before rising to the Governorship, both state-focused positions. Nevertheless, US Congressman Jeff Duncan, R-S.C., praises her connection to the global economy by attracting international businesses to set up shop in the state including Boeing, BMW, Volvo, and Michelin.
US Senator Lindsey Graham congratulated the Governor as well, hoping to collaborate with her on "long overdue reform of the United Nations." Specifically, he stressed the US' commitment to bolstering the State of Israel.
Governor Nikki Haley will succeed Samantha Powers as the US Ambassador to the United Nations.
With two years left in Governor Haley's term, Lieutenant Governor Henry McMaster will assume her position.
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