Marco Rubio, a prominent real estate mogul and politician, has consistently positioned himself as a steadfast figure within the conservative political arena. Known for his endorsement of Donald Trump during the turbulent 2016 campaign season, Rubio reiterated his support early in the 2024 campaign, even amidst Trump's legal challenges. As a traditionalist politician, Rubio's foreign policy is anchored in three main pillars: military strength, protection of free trade, and upholding "moral clarity" in the pursuit of "defending freedom." His political journey is deeply rooted in his upbringing as the son of Cuban immigrants, which influenced his conventional conservative views.
Rubio's political identity is shaped by his beginnings in Miami's Cuban community. He has long been seen as a conventional politician, with his political strategies reflecting his traditional conservative values. Rubio first entered the presidential race in 2016, where he outlined his vision for America's foreign policy. This vision promotes a robust American presence on the global stage, reflecting his belief that "the world is at its safest when America is at its strongest."
“The first and most important pillar of my foreign policy will be a renewal of American strength. This is an idea based on a simple truth: the world is at its safest when America is at its strongest,” – Marco Rubio
Rubio's influence extends beyond domestic politics into international relations, where he is recognized as a foreign policy hawk. He has been unwavering in his criticism of figures like Russian President Vladimir Putin, whom he once described as a "thug." His hardline stance is evident in his policy recommendations towards Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro, and his pro-Israel advocacy further underscores his commitment to strong alliances.
“If there were more Israels in the Middle East, more countries like that, the world would be a safer and a better place,” – Marco Rubio
However, not all view his policies positively. Stephen Zunes, an international studies professor, has labeled some of Rubio's positions on Israel-Palestine and other geopolitical issues as "extreme." Despite such critiques, Rubio remains dedicated to his policy approach, which he believes aligns with American interests and values.
“I think he wants to see a Pax Americana” – Stephen Zunes
Rubio's willingness to challenge old allies and forge new paths aligns with the seismic shifts in U.S. foreign policy under President Donald Trump. He has shown readiness to attack established political figures while supporting Trump's controversial policies, such as those regarding the Middle East.
“bold” – Marco Rubio (referring to Trump's proposal to ethnically cleanse Gaza)
Rubio's strategic choices reflect his broader ambitions within the Republican Party and beyond. Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart encapsulates this sentiment, underscoring Rubio's embodiment of the American dream and Republican ideals.
“Marco Rubio not only exemplifies the American dream. I would tell you that he exemplifies the Republican Party” – Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart
Rubio's personal history, particularly his family's exile from Cuba, has profoundly influenced his political ideology and personal convictions. He often speaks about how these experiences have shaped both his life and political career.
“I knew how the trauma of exile – disbelief, guilt, a sense of loss – had shaped their lives and my own” – Marco Rubio
This background informs his staunch opposition to regimes like those of Maduro and Hussein, reinforcing his belief that their removal leads to global stability.
“The world is a better place because Saddam Hussein is not there” – Marco Rubio
Despite criticisms and challenges, Rubio remains committed to influencing U.S. foreign policy and possibly aiming for higher political aspirations. According to Hanna, an observer of Rubio's career trajectory, he may be eyeing the White House after Trump's tenure.
“I think he felt that he could have at least some influence in that position, that he could convince the president on a few things, could steer the policy in a direction that he thought would be better” – Stephen Zunes
