Tilman Fertitta, Warren Stephens, Tom Barrack, face confirmation votes
President Donald Trump’s diplomatic nominees had a successful day in the Senate, with two nominees confirmed and another awaiting a late evening vote. Tom Barrack and Warren Stephens were confirmed as ambassadors to Turkey and the United Kingdom/Northern Ireland, respectively. Meanwhile, Tilman Fertitta, owner of the Houston Rockets and CEO of Landry’s Restaurants group, awaited his confirmation vote to become the ambassador to Italy and San Marino.
Barrack’s nomination passed with a vote of 60-36, while Stephens was confirmed with a vote of 59-39. Fertitta, a GOP donor, has been a vocal supporter of President Trump, praising his economic policies and understanding of the country’s needs. His confirmation vote was set for later in the evening.
Barrack’s history as an undersecretary in the Reagan Interior Department, focusing on energy policy, makes him a fitting choice for the Turkish ambassadorship. He also played a key role in helping Trump secure financing for the Plaza Hotel during the 1990s. The two have remained friends over the years, with Barrack raising millions for Trump’s first inauguration.
Stephens, whose family bank has a presence in London, is a fan of the Tottenham Hotspurs Premier League soccer team, aligning well with his ambassadorship to the UK. He has a history of supporting Republican causes and candidates, including donations to various Arkansas politicians and former presidential candidate Steve Forbes.
The confirmation of these nominees highlights President Trump’s choices for key diplomatic positions, with each nominee bringing their own expertise and background to their respective roles. The Senate’s approval of these nominees sets the stage for them to represent the United States abroad and strengthen diplomatic ties with their respective countries.
