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Matt Whitaker Confirmed as U.S. Ambassador to NATO in Narrow Senate Vote

The Senate's 52-45 confirmation highlights partisan divisions over Whitaker's qualifications and U.S. commitment to NATO under Trump's leadership.

Former acting Attorney General Matt Whitaker speaks at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in Dallas, Aug. 4, 2022. (AP Photo/LM Otero, File)
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Overview

  • Matt Whitaker was confirmed as U.S. ambassador to NATO by a 52-45 Senate vote, following a contentious confirmation process.
  • Whitaker assured senators of the Trump administration's 'ironclad' commitment to NATO, despite concerns over Trump's critical stance toward the alliance.
  • Whitaker, a former Acting Attorney General and Chief of Staff to Jeff Sessions, has a law enforcement background but limited foreign policy experience.
  • President Trump praised Whitaker as a 'strong warrior and loyal Patriot' who would prioritize advancing U.S. interests within NATO.
  • The confirmation comes as NATO faces challenges including defense spending disputes and geopolitical tensions, with U.S. leadership under scrutiny.