When former United Nations Ambassador Susan Rice was floated as a possible Secretary of State, Sen. John McCain and Sen. Kelly Ayotte were two of her most vocal critics. But after it was reported Wednesday that Rice would be appointed national security advisor, both said they would do their best to work with her, while making their displeasure with the idea clear.
McCain tweeted Wednesday morning that while he “obviously” did not agree with the appointment, he would do his best to work with her.
Obviously I disagree w/ POTUS appointment of Susan Rice as Nat’l Security Adviser, but I’ll make every effort to work w/ her on imp’t issues
— John McCain (@SenJohnMcCain) June 5, 2013
Ayotte sent a similar tweet later in the morning.
Amb Rice did a disservice to the nation when she made misleading stmts abt #Benghazi.However, its POTUS’ call & I’ll work with her going fwd
— Kelly Ayotte (@KellyAyotte) June 5, 2013
Rice received the brunt of the criticism for the administration’s handling of the aftermath of the September 11, 2012 terrorist attack on the U.S. consulate in Benghazi after she blamed the violence on an anti-Muslim internet video.
When she was floated as a possible Secretary of State, McCain, Ayotte, and Sen. Lindsey Graham were among her most vociferous critics.
Graham communications director Kevin Bishop refused to comment when reached by email.