President Donald Trump has nominated Rep. Wesley Hunt (R-TX) for the position of U.S. Ambassador to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This nomination comes as part of a series of nominations made two months before the midterm elections, which will determine Republican control of the U.S. House and Senate. Trump initially refrained from endorsing a candidate in the primary but later supported state Attorney General Ken Paxton in the runoff. Hunt, who positioned himself as a strong ally of Trump during the race, endorsed Paxton after Trump's endorsement.
The ambassadorship was previously held by Michael Ratney, who was nominated by former President Joe Biden and served until January 2025. Hunt expressed that it was the "honor of a lifetime" to receive Trump's nomination. He stated, "Having served in the region both in combat as an Army officer and for two years as a diplomatic liaison in the Kingdom, I understand the strategic importance of the partnership between the United States and Saudi Arabia and the profound responsibility of this position."
Hunt added, "When confirmed, I will serve with humility and honor, advance his vision of peace through strength and deepen this vital partnership."
According to the Texas Tribune, Hunt's nomination requires Senate confirmation, and the Senate has only two weeks in session until Election Day, which may complicate scheduling a vote. The ambassadorship to Saudi Arabia has been held on an interim basis since Trump began his second term. During his first term, the position was held by retired Army general and former U.S. Central Command commander John Abizaid.