Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.) indicated that former national security adviser Mike Waltz will undergo a “cruel and brutal” confirmation hearing as he aims to become the next UN ambassador.
“It’s going to be a brutal hearing,” Duckworth stated on CBS News’ “Face the Nation” on Sunday. “He simply isn’t qualified for the role because of his involvement in this signal chain issue.”
Waltz was involved in a significant controversy during Trump’s early days in office, which led to miscommunications and included Atlantic editor Jeffrey Goldberg in a group chat with senior officials. He also had conflicts with chiefs of staff across both the administration and outside entities, who criticized him for not aligning closely enough with the president’s “America First” agenda.
Democrats have heavily criticized Waltz over this scandal. Although Defense Secretary Pete Hegses provided insights on a planned attack against the Houthi rebels, Trump stood by Waltz amid the backlash.
Over the weekend, Trump dismissed concerns regarding Waltz’s departure, implying that both he and Vice President Vance are better suited for roles typically filled by former military officers.
Following the reports of Waltz being ousted from his national security role, Trump announced Waltz as the candidate for UN ambassador, a move aimed at maintaining House GOP majority support from Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.).
In contrast to national security roles, the UN ambassador position is one that requires Senate confirmation.
Duckworth expressed her stance clearly, stating that Waltz’s performance had been “failing,” and she would not support his nomination due to his incompetence regarding classified information.
“He has failed in his job and is now being promoted to ambassador,” she remarked. “This is not what our country needs at the UN, especially during such a perilous time for national security.”
Other Democrats echoed Duckworth’s sentiments, anticipating a contentious confirmation process.
“I think it’s going to be a tough confirmation hearing,” Senator Mark Warner (D-Va.) said on CBS News’ “Face the Nation” as well.
Warner noted that Waltz seems aware of the scrutiny he faces and mentioned the questionable conduct surrounding the use of the Signal Group Chat for discussing the attack plan.
