Kari Lake's nomination as US ambassador to Jamaica remains stalled in Senate
The former Arizona candidate's nomination could expire if she is not confirmed before the Senate recess, leaving a post vacant for almost two years.
KINGSTON, Jamaica. Kari Lake, nominated by President Donald Trump in May as the next US ambassador to Jamaica, has still not been confirmed by the US Senate.
The former Republican Senate and gubernatorial candidate from Arizona was approved by the Senate Foreign Relations Committee in June after completing the vetting process. But the nomination has since been held up by a procedural block over political and diplomatic concerns.
Some senators have questioned her ability and trustworthiness. According to media reports, senators and Donald Ray Tapia, who served as US ambassador to Jamaica during the first Trump administration, expressed doubts about her ability to handle sensitive materials.
Media reports say Texas Senator John Cornyn placed a hold on the nomination that was later released, but North Carolina Senator Thom Tillis then blocked it, preventing it from reaching the floor in August.
The nomination could expire if there is no confirmation by October 2, before the Senate goes into recess. Ambassadorial appointments are usually confirmed by en bloc voting.
Mixed views in the diaspora
Dr Rupert Francis, an active member of the Jamaican diaspora, told Caribbean Life he was dismayed the post remained vacant.
"She is competent and is seen as someone who has the ability," he said, adding that she "could be less aggressive in how she say things, especially when she is dealing with an audience such as Jamaica."
Lorna Reid, a Jamaican who lived in Arizona and is visiting Jamaica, said she had been looking forward to the appointment. "I did not vote for her during her run for governor in Arizona, but I would still welcome her," she said.
McKenzie Grey, a Jamaican living in New York, said he knew little about the nomination but believed "they should give her the opportunity to prove herself. It is a sensitive and delicate post."
The post has been vacant for almost two years, since former ambassador N. Nick Perry stepped down following Mr Trump's inauguration after winning the 2024 presidential election.
