**Rubio's Shift: Embracing Trump's Foreign Policy**

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Post on Nov 13, 2024

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Rubio's Shift: Embracing Trump's Foreign Policy

Marco Rubio, the Florida senator known for his hawkish stance on foreign policy, has undergone a significant shift in his approach, seemingly aligning himself more closely with the policies of former President Donald Trump. This evolution has raised eyebrows and sparked debate about the future of Republican foreign policy.

From Interventionist to Isolationist?

Rubio, a Cuban-American who has long advocated for a strong US military presence abroad, was once a vocal critic of Trump's "America First" approach. He argued for a more interventionist foreign policy, emphasizing the need for US leadership on the global stage. However, in recent years, Rubio's rhetoric has taken a noticeable turn, with him increasingly echoing Trump's skepticism of international institutions and his emphasis on national interests.

This shift has been particularly evident in his views on China. Rubio has been a vocal critic of China's aggressive economic and military expansion, calling for a tough stance against Beijing. He has also expressed support for Trump's trade war with China and his efforts to counter Chinese influence in the Indo-Pacific region.

Key Areas of Convergence

Here are some key areas where Rubio's views appear to have converged with Trump's foreign policy:

• Trade: Rubio has become a staunch advocate for protectionist trade policies, criticizing free trade agreements and supporting measures to protect American jobs from foreign competition. He has even gone so far as to endorse Trump's tariffs on Chinese goods, a move that was initially met with skepticism from many Republicans.
• Immigration: Rubio has long supported a path to citizenship for undocumented immigrants, but he has since softened his stance on immigration, particularly regarding border security. He has expressed support for Trump's wall and has called for stricter border controls, echoing the former president's "build the wall" mantra.
• International Alliances: Rubio has criticized NATO allies for not meeting their defense spending commitments, a sentiment echoed by Trump. He has also expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of multilateral organizations, such as the United Nations, suggesting a preference for bilateral agreements.
• Middle East: Rubio has been a vocal supporter of Israel and has called for a tougher stance against Iran. He has also supported Trump's withdrawal from the Iran nuclear deal and his decision to move the US embassy in Israel to Jerusalem.

The Implications for Republican Foreign Policy

Rubio's shift towards Trump's foreign policy has significant implications for the future of the Republican Party. It suggests that the party is moving away from its traditional neo-conservative foreign policy, which emphasized multilateralism and interventionism.

This shift could have profound implications for US foreign policy, potentially leading to a more isolationist and protectionist approach to the world. It also raises questions about the future of the Republican Party and its commitment to traditional values of global leadership and engagement.

Conclusion

Rubio's evolution in foreign policy, from a vocal advocate for interventionism to a supporter of Trump's "America First" approach, signals a significant shift in the Republican Party's foreign policy agenda. While some see this as a necessary realignment in the face of a changing world, others worry about the implications for US leadership on the global stage. It remains to be seen whether Rubio's embrace of Trump's policies will become the dominant force in shaping Republican foreign policy in the years to come.