SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO AM) - Senator John Thune says the President-elect's nominee for Secretary of State, Exxon-Mobil CEO Rex Tillerson, is consistent with Trump's decision making.
Thune says he met Tillerson last year to talk over some energy issues.
He calls Tillerson an "impressive guy, very accomplished and has a great record of putting together deals among players, different places around the world, Middle East, Europe." He says Tillerson is someone who will come to the cabinet post with a lot of experience on the world stage, "which is something that you need."
Thune says Trump is picking people outside of the political establishment.
He says Tillerson will receive a fair and full hearing in front of the Foreign Relations committee. If he is reported out, Thune says, Senators will get an opportunity to talk about his qualifications on the floor.
Thune realizes the concerns over Tillerson's background.
Thune says, at least among Democrats, part of the concern is that he works in energy and "they hate the fossil fuel industry." He says there's a concern among conservatives about Tillerson negotiating deals with Middle Eastern countries and how will that impact the relationship with Israel.
Thune says there's also interest in his relationship with the Russians.
Thune anticipates the Senate will defer to the President-elect's nominees to the cabinet positions.
