Marco Rubio: From West Miami to Secretary of State?

Marco Rubio, a rising Republican star from South Florida, could soon be appointed U.S. Secretary of State under President-elect Donald Trump, placing him fourth in line for the presidency. Rubio, 53, began his political career in 1998 as a city commissioner in West Miami, a small suburb of just 7,000 people. He quickly advanced to the Florida House of Representatives, eventually becoming Speaker, before winning a seat in the U.S. Senate in 2010.

Locals in West Miami, where Rubio’s political journey began, always believed he was destined for greatness. “I thought he was going to be president,” said Ralph Montes De Oca, a city worker. Rubio’s legacy is deeply embedded in the city, according to Gaby Lopez, a local official.

Rubio’s rise in national politics was swift. Known for his sharp critiques of socialism in Latin America and his tough stance on China, he earned a reputation as a conservative leader. His 2016 presidential bid against Trump faltered, but he has since become a trusted ally of the president. Now, Rubio is reportedly Trump’s top choice for Secretary of State, completing a remarkable journey from West Miami to the global stage.