Rubio warns top staff against conflicts of interest as Republicans look to 2028

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned senior officials in a recent meeting that no departmental staff member should engage in activities that could create conflicts of interest, according to four people familiar with the matter. The meeting took place before the Republican Party's electoral defeats on Tuesday. Rubio's comments come as leading Republican figures seek to distance themselves from the unpopular Trump administration.

The meeting followed the high-profile resignation of US Ambassador to Greece Kimberly Guilfoyle, who was criticized for allegedly profiting from favors and gifts in exchange for access to administration officials. Rubio emphasized that unethical behavior would result in termination, regardless of an official's connections. He also mentioned that too many officials were making decisions without coordination, and significant decisions required his approval or that of Deputy Secretary Christopher Landau.

The State Department declined to comment on the meeting. Following the meeting, the State Department's policy chief, Jeremy Lewin, was reportedly dismissed due to concerns about his independent work and defiance of directives. Lewin resigned from his position, claiming it was planned weeks prior to his announcement and unrelated to the meeting.

Rubio's management of the State Department may become a subject of discussion during the 2028 presidential campaign, as the party faces scrutiny over self-dealing allegations and preparations for the transfer of power to the Democrats.