President-elect Trump has announced that ExxonMobil CEO Rex Tillerson is his pick for secretary of state. In a release from his transition headquarters in New York, Trump says Tillerson is “among the most accomplished business leaders and international deal makers in the world.” Trump says Tillerson “knows how to manage a global enterprise, which is crucial to running a successful State Department.” Meantime, Tillerson has no public service or diplomatic skills.
Tillerson has close ties to Russian President Vladimir Putin, and in 2013 received Russia’s Order of Friendship.
Tillerson’s Company Exxon Has Billions at Stake Over Sanctions on Russia
Trump has dismissed concerns about the businessman’s close ties to Russia, though members of Congress may have more to say about it. Senate Democrats and some Republicans have expressed concern about Tillerson’s business ties to Russia.
Former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice gave Tillerson glowing reviews.
“Rex Tillerson is an excellent choice for Secretary of State. 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”
https://twitter.com/CondoleezzaRice/status/808660516818145280
And former defense chief Bill Gates, who led the Pentagon under both Presidents Obama and George W. Bush backed Tillerson early on; according to the Washinton Examiner:
“While ExxonMobil is one of many clients of Rice Hadley Gates Consulting, I met Rex years earlier through our mutual involvement in and leadership of the Boy Scouts of America. I know this Eagle Scout will be a global champion for the best values of our country.”
Source: AP
