Despite fierce opposition from the increasingly anti-Israel Democrat Party, the Senate has confirmed President Donald Trump’s pick for ambassador of the Jewish nation.
Specifically, the upper chamber confirmed Mike Huckabee in a 53-46 vote, mostly along party lines.
The former Arkansas governor and former Baptist minister secured his diplomatic position, with Senator John Fetterman standing as the lone Democrat to support his nomination.
Huckabee’s confirmation represents a significant win for the Trump administration’s pro-Israel stance.
President Trump stated, “He loves Israel and the people of Israel, and likewise, the people of Israel love him. Mike will work tirelessly to bring about Peace in the Middle East.”
The president announced Huckabee’s nomination shortly after the election, emphasizing the strong relationship the former governor has maintained with the Jewish state throughout his career.
The new ambassador brings nearly five decades of connection to Israel, having first visited in 1973.
Since 1981, he has led roughly 10,000 participants on trips to the Holy Land, demonstrating his deep commitment to America’s most important ally in the Middle East.
Huckabee’s nomination faced predictable resistance from Democrats and left-leaning groups who objected to his strong pro-Israel positions.
The former governor has openly opposed the two-state solution that has been described as a failed liberal Middle East policy for decades.
Mike Huckabee confirmed as US Ambassador to Israel. Mazal tov Mike!🇺🇸🇮🇱 pic.twitter.com/6LjVYmIEwn
— Barry Tigay (@TigayBarry) April 9, 2025
He has also expressed skepticism about the term “Palestinians” for Arab descendants in the region.
Notably, Huckabee refers to the West Bank by its biblical names “Judea and Samaria,” terminology that acknowledges the historical Jewish connection to these territories.
As an evangelical Christian, Huckabee’s support for Israel is deeply rooted in biblical teachings regarding God’s covenant with the Jewish people.
This religious foundation informs his understanding of Israel’s right to exist and defend itself.
During his confirmation hearings, Huckabee assured lawmakers that he would prioritize implementing the president’s policies in his role as ambassador.
This commitment to serving the administration’s agenda while bringing his extensive knowledge of Israel to the position helped secure his confirmation despite Democrat opposition.
Huckabee’s appointment comes at a crucial time for U.S.-Israel relations.
The region continues to face threats from Iran-backed terrorists like Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon.
His strong support for Israel’s right to defend itself will likely reassure Israeli leadership that America stands firmly behind them against these existential threats.
