President Trump's decision to exclude the U.N. ambassador role from cabinet status sends a clear signal about his view of the United Nations. It’s a calculated move that underscores a broader skepticism toward the global body.
According to CBS News, sources familiar with the matter confirm that Trump has chosen not to elevate Mike Waltz’s position to cabinet rank. This comes despite initial reports suggesting Waltz filled a final cabinet vacancy after his Senate confirmation earlier this month.
The decision aligns with Trump’s ongoing criticism of the U.N., which he has accused of incompetence and irrelevance. His frustration, voiced after technical mishaps during a visit to U.N. headquarters, framed the organization as little more than a source of “empty words.”
The cabinet designation for the U.N. ambassador has fluctuated across administrations. Presidents like Reagan, Clinton, and Obama included the role in their cabinets, while George W. Bush did not.
During Trump’s first term, Nikki Haley fought for cabinet status, while her successor Kelly Craft did not receive it. Under Biden, Linda Thomas-Greenfield was part of the cabinet, showing how the role’s importance varies with each leader’s priorities.
Trump’s choice to downgrade the position means Waltz will likely have less direct access to the president. Major decisions will now filter through Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who oversees all U.S. ambassadors.
Trump’s disdain for the U.N. isn’t new; he has slashed $1 billion in U.S. funding and withdrawn from bodies like the Human Rights Council and UNESCO. His address to the General Assembly last month openly questioned the organization’s purpose.
“What is the purpose of the United Nations?” Trump asked, adding that it falls short of its “tremendous potential.” His point about strongly-worded letters lacking follow-through cuts to the heart of why many see the U.N. as a paper tiger.
Such rhetoric isn’t just talk; it’s policy. Withdrawing from key U.N. entities and reducing funds shows a willingness to rethink America’s role in an institution that often seems misaligned with national interests.
Despite the non-cabinet status, Waltz is reportedly well-regarded by U.S. Mission officials and international counterparts. Within the White House, he’s seen as a capable messenger for Trump’s agenda.
“Ambassador Waltz will represent the United States well,” White House spokeswoman Anna Kelly told CBS News. Yet, one wonders if his influence will be stifled by having to defer to Rubio on critical matters.
Waltz himself has emphasized aligning with Trump and Rubio’s priorities. In a recent Fox News interview, he noted the U.N.’s unique access to countries not represented in Washington, hinting at untapped diplomatic potential.
Trump’s handling of key roles extends beyond the U.N. post; after Waltz stepped down as national security adviser in May, no replacement was named. Instead, Rubio took on the additional responsibilities, a move Trump reportedly favors.
Past nominations, like Elise Stefanik’s brief consideration for a cabinet role before its withdrawal in March, reflect a pattern of reevaluating traditional structures. Even Waltz’s confirmation, passing 47-45 with limited bipartisan support, shows the contentious nature of these appointments.
Ultimately, Trump’s approach to the U.N. and its ambassador signals a broader intent to prioritize American interests over multilateral niceties. While Waltz may still navigate the diplomatic maze effectively, the message is clear: the U.N. isn’t a top-tier concern for this administration.
