Sen. Marco Rubio said promoting all forms of energy, including coal, oil and natural gas, should be a “centerpiece” of U.S. diplomacy, at his confirmation hearing to serve as secretary of State.
The Florida Republican went before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee on Wednesday to face questions about his ability to be the United States’ top diplomat under President-elect Donald Trump. The position has in other administrations blazed paths on international cooperation on climate change and energy by engaging with world leaders to reduce carbon pollution and expand clean energy production.
Rubio indicated that he would focus on fossil fuels.
Asked by Wyoming Sen. John Barrasso, a Republican, whether he was committed to promoting those types of energy projects globally — what he dubbed “affordable energy” — Rubio offered a strong defense of oil, gas and coal.
