Trump’s Saudi ambassador pick faces early hurdles

Donald Trump's selection of Representative Wesley Hunt, R-Texas, as the United States' ambassador to Saudi Arabia has sparked concerns over potential challenges in his confirmation process. Hunt's nomination came as he was finishing third in the Texas Republican Senate primary just months prior. The Texas Republican Senate primary was a contested race that included Senators John Cornyn, R-Texas, and Attorney General Ken Paxton.

Hunt had represented the Republican party in this bid, pitting him against his two opponents. Current Senate Majority Leader, Thom Tillis, is a potential obstacle to Hunt's confirmation, as he has previously held up nominations as leverage to press the Trump administration on other issues. Tillis has indicated that he will not allow Hunt to be confirmed as a part of an en bloc nominee package, given the short Senate session days remaining.

Tillis's actions suggest the odds of Hunt's confirmation are low, though Tillis has stated that it could still happen with additional effort. The timing of the confirmation is also uncertain, as the Senate is in its final legislative sprint before the midterm elections, making it difficult to fit the confirmation hearing, committee vote, and floor vote within the remaining calendar.

If Hunt's confirmation is delayed until after the midterms, Republican support could be harder to secure, particularly if the Republicans lose seats in the Senate. The timing of Hunt's confirmation could also be influenced by the geopolitical situation in Saudi Arabia. The kingdom is currently facing increased military pressure from Iran-backed forces, including the Houthis in Yemen who have launched attacks against Saudi Arabia.

The East-West oil pipeline, a critical route for Saudi crude exports, has also been shut down due to attacks. With these security challenges and the need for increased US support, Hunt's confirmation could be viewed positively by Saudi Arabia, especially considering his extensive military background and close ties to congressional Republicans.

Some members of the Foreign Relations Committee have expressed cautious optimism about Hunt's nomination, with Sen. Ted Cruz praising him as "terrific" and expressing his gratitude to President Trump for his confidence in Hunt. However, Hunt's own comments about his time in Saudi Arabia after the Osama bin Laden operation could become a focus of questioning if he is confirmed.