The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of ExxonMobil Rex Tillerson has just been officially appointed as the next Secretary of State for Trump Presidency. While this seems to be a good decision for to be President Trump, it has already sparked numerous concerns.
Trump implies that Rex is the best man for job
The Trump Transition team cited Tillerson as ‘among the most accomplished business leaders and deal makers in the world’. The President-elect Donald Trump himself said, “His tenacity, broad experience and deep understanding of geopolitics make him an excellent choice for secretary of state. He will promote regional stability and focus on the core national security interests of the United States.” Likewise, Trump’s Twitter post referred Rex as experienced in dealing mainly with the foreign governments.
I have chosen one of the truly great business leaders of the world, Rex Tillerson, Chairman and CEO of ExxonMobil, to be Secretary of State.
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 13, 2016
Donald Trump was reportedly considering the 2012 republican Presidential Election nominee Mitt Romney and David Petraeus. After series of talks and negotiations, the Trump side reached the conclusion of awarding the position to a businessman.
With Rex’s appointment to the cabinet, Donald Trump will have 7 more offices to fill.
Why are people concerned?
Rex Tillerson is said to be closely tied to the Russian government, therefore raising the chances of leaking intelligence. Illustratively, he was awarded Moscow’s Order of Friendship. At the same time, some people view Rex’s Russian ties as a plus point to US government.
Yesterday, Russian spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, “On account of his [Rex Tillerson] work as the head of one of the largest oil companies, he had contacts with our representatives more than once. He fulfills his responsibilities in a highly professional manner.” This statement from Russia after the US intelligence report of possible Russian intervention in US election reasonably pose a question on Rex’s appointment to chair foreign affairs.
In the same way, Rex Tillerson is also criticized as being inexperienced. And, the fear that Rex will use his powers to benefit ExxonMobil is also rampant.
