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President Donald Trump announced two additional leadership announcements on Wednesday, including Matthew Whitaker as the U.S. Ambassador to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and Pete Hoekstra as the U.S. Ambassador to Canada.
According to statements from the president posted to Truth Social, both men previously served as leaders in Trump’s first administration.
“Matt is a strong warrior and loyal Patriot, who will ensure the United States’ interests are advanced and defended. Matt will strengthen relationships with our NATO Allies, and stand firm in the face of threats to Peace and Stability – He will put AMERICA FIRST,” Trump said in his statement concerning Whitaker.
“I have full confidence in Matt’s ability to represent the United States with Strength, Integrity, and unwavering Dedication. I look forward to working closely with him as we continue to promote PEACE THROUGH STRENGTH, Freedom, and Prosperity around the World,” he continued.
Whitaker served as acting attorney general from November 2018 to February 2019. He also served as chief of staff in the Justice Department and was the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Iowa.
“Pete is well-respected in the Great State of Michigan – A State we won sizably. He represented Michigan’s 2nd District in Congress for nearly 20 years, where he was also Chairman of the House Intelligence Committee, and was a great help to our Campaign as Chairman of the Michigan Republican Party,” Trump wrote concerning Hoekstra.
“In my Second Term, Pete will help me once again put AMERICA FIRST,” he wrote. “He did an outstanding job as United States Ambassador to the Netherlands during our first four years, and I am confident that he will continue to represent our Country well in this new role. Thank you, Pete!” he added.
Hoekstra was the U.S. ambassador to the Netherlands during Trump’s first term. He also served 18 years as a House member representing the 2nd District of Michigan where he was a chairman and ranking member of the House Intelligence Committee.