Trump Taps Huckabee as Israel Envoy, Plans to Visit Capitol Hill

By John Smith

In a surprise move, President Trump has nominated former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee to be the next U.S. ambassador to Israel. Huckabee, a conservative Christian who has been a vocal supporter of Israel in the past, is expected to face a tough confirmation battle in the Senate.

Trump's decision to nominate Huckabee comes at a time of heightened tensions between the United States and Israel. The Trump administration has been critical of Israel's settlement activity in the West Bank and its treatment of Palestinians.

Huckabee's Background

Huckabee, 66, is a former Baptist minister who served as governor of Arkansas from 1996 to 2007. He is a graduate of Ouachita Baptist University and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.

Huckabee is a conservative Republican who has been a vocal supporter of Israel in the past. He has said that he believes that Israel is a "strategic ally" of the United States and that the United States should "stand with Israel against its enemies."

Senate Confirmation Battle

Huckabee's nomination is expected to face a tough confirmation battle in the Senate. Democrats have already expressed concerns about his views on Israel and his lack of diplomatic experience.

Sen. Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), the ranking Democrat on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, said that he has "serious concerns" about Huckabee's nomination. Menendez said that he is concerned about Huckabee's "past statements on Israel and his lack of diplomatic experience."

Trump's Visit to Capitol Hill

Trump is also planning to visit Capitol Hill next week to meet with members of Congress about his budget and other issues.

Trump's visit to Capitol Hill comes at a time of heightened tensions between the White House and Congress. Democrats have been critical of Trump's budget and his other policies.

Conclusion

Trump's decision to nominate Huckabee as ambassador to Israel and his plans to visit Capitol Hill next week are both likely to generate controversy. Huckabee's nomination is expected to face a tough confirmation battle in the Senate, and Trump's visit to Capitol Hill is likely to be met with protests from Democrats.