President-elect Donald Trump has recently been on a nominating spree, appointing loyal supporters and notable Floridians to various ambassadorships as he prepares to resume the presidency. Among these selections, automotive entrepreneur John Arrigo has been nominated to serve as the U.S. ambassador to Portugal. Arrigo, known for his successful dealership you might have seen on television, was announced for the position via Trump’s social media platform, Truth Social, where the president-elect praised Arrigo’s leadership and commitment to American interests.
“For over thirty years, he has been an incredible leader in business in West Palm Beach, and is respected by all,” Trump stated, demonstrating the personal relationships and loyalty ties he values when making appointments. If confirmed, Arrigo will replace current ambassador Randi Charno Levine, who has announced her resignation effective January 19, 2025. Arrigo's background appears purely business-focused with no clear ties to diplomacy or governmental experience. It remains uncertain what specific connections he might have with Portugal.
Trump continues to reflect his tendency to nominate individuals closely aligned with his own political views, as demonstrated by his choice of Callista Gingrich, wife of former House Speaker Newt Gingrich, for the ambassadorship to Switzerland. Having previously served as the ambassador to the Holy See during Trump's initial term, the choice aligns with Trump's pattern of maximizing loyalty within his cabinet.
“I am pleased to announce this pick for ambassador to Switzerland, enhancing our relationship with our global partners,” Trump noted, stressing the importance of international diplomacy. The couple invested locally by purchasing property worth $3 million in Naples, emphasizing their connection to the Sunshine State.
Meanwhile, Trump has turned his focus onto Panama with the appointment of Kevin Marino Cabrera, Miami-Dade commissioner, as the ambassador. Cabrera, recognized as a staunch Trump loyalist, previously directed Trump’s 2020 re-election campaign efforts within Florida. Trump’s announcement criticized Panama directly, reflecting his outspoken views on the country’s handling of the Panama Canal.
“Few understand Latin American politics as well as Kevin — He will do a FANTASTIC job representing our Nation’s interests in Panama!” Trump added, portraying confidence in Cabrera’s abilities. The appointment seems to reflect Trump's aggressive and sometimes controversial geo-political perspectives, which have included suggestions the U.S. take control of the Panama Canal.
The Panama Canal, reclaimed by Panama from U.S. control back in 1999, has become the subject of international conversation due to China’s increasing influence and investments there. Trump’s association with Cabrera could signal intentions to restore closer U.S. connections or control over the canal, which Cabrera has indicated no intention of negotiating.
Interestingly, this aligns with earlier sentiments expressed by Trump who, during his presidency, voiced ambition to annex regions like Greenland and suggested Canada might benefit from becoming the U.S.'s 51st state. Such remarks have catalyzed debate about sovereignty issues within those regions.
The ambassadorial appointments also feature prominent figures with strong ties to Trump and his brand. Kimberly Guilfoyle, who previously co-hosted programs on Fox News, was named ambassador to Greece, underscoring the network's influence on his selections. Guilfoyle, who is notable for her fundraising prowess within Trump’s political sphere, brings notoriety but raises questions about relevance and experience concerning her new role.
Another appointment drawing attention is Daniel Newlin as ambassador to Colombia. Newlin boasts connections to law enforcement and has been recognized for his fundraising efforts on behalf of Trump, contributing to the political climate stifling any pushback against his selections.
Trump's pattern of favoring trusted allies for ambassadorships continues with his decision-making emphasizing loyalty over experience. His selections outline his perspective on governance, where political allegiance trumps diplomatic expertise.
The growing trend of appointing individuals with tenuous connections to their respective roles emphasizes Trump’s focus on consolidative power rather than traditional qualifications. His administration has set precedents for appointments which could have lasting influences on U.S. foreign relations and domestic perception.
Among other appointees, Pamela Bondi for Attorney General and Mike Huckabee for ambassador to Israel certainly shine light on Trump’s commitment to individuals distinctly integrated within his political orbit, enforcing loyalty as the primary criterion.
Looking forward, Trump's picks for ambassador positions mark a significant shift, illustrating the growing intertwining of personal relationships and political trust as foundations for his administration's ethos. Observers now await confirmation from the Senate and subsequent actions from these choices as they take office and begin steering U.S. diplomacy. How these appointments will play out on the international stage remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: loyalty appears to stand tall among the selection criteria.
