Condoleezza Rice and Robert Gates both praised Donald Trump’s nomination of Rex Tillerson to be the next secretary of state Tuesday morning.
“Rex Tillerson is an excellent choice for Secretary of State,” Rice — who headed the State Department from 2005-2009 under George W. Bush — wrote on Facebook. “He will bring to the post remarkable and broad international experience, a deep understanding of the global economy, and a belief in America’s special role in the world.”
Condoleezza Rice watches the Par 3 Contest prior to the start of the 2016 Masters Tournament (Getty Images)
“I know Rex as a successful business man and a patriot. He will represent the interests and the values of the United States with resolve and commitment, and he will lead the exceptional men and women of the State Department with respect and dedication,” she continued.
“I look forward to supporting Rex through the confirmation process and then welcoming him to the family of Secretaries of State.”
Former Secretary of Defense Bob Gates also released a statement Tuesday morning endorsing Tillerson’s nomination.
Robert Gates arrive at Trump Tower on December 2, 2016 (Getty Imags)
“He would bring to the position vast knowledge, experience and success in dealing with dozens of governments and leaders in every corner of the world,” he explained. “He is a person of great integrity whose only goal in office would be to protect and advance the interest of the United States.
Robert Gates statement to @CBSNews: @CBSThisMorning #newsisback pic.twitter.com/rxCLc1zAtt
— Norah O’Donnell (@NorahODonnell) December 13, 2016