The U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee convened on Wednesday to consider Marco Rubio’s nomination for Secretary of State. During the hearing, Rubio highlighted the need for the U.S. to play an active role in the region, stating that China must be reminded that the “costs of intervening in Taiwan are too high.”
Rubio reaffirmed the U.S. “One China” Policy, which is grounded in the Taiwan Relations Act and the Six Assurances. These commitments include supporting Taiwan’s defense and ensuring the U.S. does not pressure Taiwan into any arrangements with Beijing. He stressed that these principles have been held consistently across administrations since 1979 and that this is expected to continue.
Rubio also advocated for expanding Taiwan’s participation in international forums, emphasizing the need for the island to voice its stance on key global issues where it remains unrepresented.
A longtime supporter of Taiwan, Rubio played a crucial role in passing the 2019 Taipei Act and was among the first to call for stronger actions against China. He has been sanctioned by China twice for his stance on Beijing’s treatment of Uyghurs in Xinjiang and its suppression of Hong Kong’s pro-democracy movement.
The committee will vote on Rubio’s nomination before the Senate makes the final decision. If confirmed, Rubio will become the first U.S. Secretary of State sanctioned by China.