Donald Trump has finally chosen the person who he will nominate to fill the highly coveted and instrumental Secretary of State position in his administration.
Like all of his other decisions thus far, his choice has many in and outside of Washington scratching their heads.
Trump’s pick for Secretary of State is American businessman and fellow millionaire Rex Tillerson. His potential appointment is already causing much divide between Trump and his GOP base and we’ve got a few ideas why.
Here are 5 quick facts about Trump Secretary of State nominee Rex Tillerson
1. He Is The Former CEO of ExxonMobile
The billion dollar oil giant has been at the center of several high-profile controversies involving issues ranging from accusations of human rights violations, to their massive funding of lobbying groups that support climate change denial under Tillerson’s leadership.
2. He Has A Long-Running Business Relationship With Russian President Vladimir Putin
Adding to Trump’s championing of of Russian President Vladimir Putin, Tillerson has a lengthy working relationship with Moscow and Putin that began over 15 years ago.
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3. He Was Recommended To Trump By Former Secretary Of Defense Robert Gates
Gates served as Defense Secretary under both President Bush and President Obama. He was awarded the Presidential Medal Of Freedom by President Obama upon his retirement in 2011.
4. His $151 Billion Stock In ExxonMobile Stands To See A Significant Increase If U.S. Sanctions On Russia Were Lifted
Tillerson has spoken out in the past to say that he’s against sanctions and many political affiliates have expressed concern that his appointment to Trump’s administration will result in a lifting of significant U.S. sanctions on Russia.
5. Condoleeza Rice Has Endorsed Him
Rice was the last Republican Secretary of State who served under George Bush for four years before Hillary Clinton was appointed in 2009. The validity of her endorsement has since come into question because of conflicting business relationship she has with Tillerson, who was a client of the consulting firm she heads up with Robert Gates and National Security Adviser Stephen Hadley.