Senator Van Hollen Regrets Rubio Confirmation Vote

Senator Chris Van Hollen from Maryland has openly expressed regret for supporting Marco Rubio’s confirmation as Secretary of State. The Democrat’s rare admission comes amid frustration with Rubio’s alignment with President Trump’s foreign policy moves particularly on Ukraine. Van Hollen’s statement reflects growing unease among some lawmakers who expected Rubio to temper Trump’s more isolationist impulses.

Van Hollen voted for Rubio in January 2025 believing the former senator would bring a steady hand to the State Department. Rubio’s confirmation passed with bipartisan support due to his extensive experience on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. However his recent backing of Trump’s push to rethink Ukraine aid has drawn sharp criticism from Democrats like Van Hollen.

The Maryland senator told CNN he thought Rubio would stand up to Trump on critical issues like supporting allies against aggression. Instead Rubio has endorsed calls for Ukraine to negotiate with Russia even if it means ceding territory. This shift has led Van Hollen to call his vote a mistake highlighting a perceived betrayal of earlier assurances.

Rubio’s tenure as Secretary of State began with promises to prioritize U.S. interests while maintaining strong alliances. His hawkish record on Russia and China had reassured some Democrats during confirmation hearings. Yet his quick pivot to Trump’s America First doctrine has fueled accusations of abandoning principle for loyalty.

Van Hollen’s regret is shared by other Democrats like Connecticut’s Chris Murphy who also backed Rubio’s nomination. They argue his failure to challenge Trump’s skepticism of NATO and aid to Ukraine undermines U.S. credibility abroad. Rubio’s defenders say he’s adapting to the president’s mandate which voters endorsed in November 2024.

The controversy ties into broader tensions over Trump’s foreign policy direction now in its early months. Rubio has faced pressure to explain his stance especially after claiming Trump could end the Ukraine war swiftly. Critics like Van Hollen see this as naive or overly deferential to a president known for bold unilateral moves.

Rubio’s confirmation vote passed 67 to 32 in the Senate reflecting initial confidence in his leadership. Van Hollen’s reversal signals potential cracks in bipartisan support for Trump’s cabinet as policies take shape. It also raises questions about Rubio’s ability to bridge divides in a polarized Washington.

For now Van Hollen’s regret remains a symbolic jab unlikely to alter Rubio’s position or Trump’s agenda. Democrats lack the votes to challenge the administration’s course leaving their frustration largely rhetorical. Rubio continues to navigate his role as Trump’s top diplomat amid scrutiny from both sides of the aisle.