Sen. Rand Paul Blocks Mike Waltz UN Nomination, Delays Senate Vote

Senator Rand Paul has emerged as the primary obstacle to the confirmation of Mike Waltz as U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, delaying the Senate Foreign Relations Committee's vote and forcing a recess. Paul's opposition centers on Waltz's past support for maintaining U.S. troops in Afghanistan, which Paul views as contrary to his stance on ending wars without congressional interference. This resistance has compelled the Trump administration to negotiate with Democrats, resulting in a $75 million release of aid to the U.N., including funds for Haiti and Nigeria, despite Trump's broader efforts to reduce U.S. funding to various U.N. agencies. Despite the delay, the committee later advanced Waltz's nomination with a 12-10 vote, aided by Democrat Jeanne Shaheen, signaling progress toward confirmation. Waltz, a former Green Beret and national security advisor, has pledged to revitalize the U.N. in line with President Trump's agenda. However, his confirmation remains contentious due to the internal Senate dispute and concerns over his previous policy positions.