Mike Huckabee, a former Arkansas governor, Republican presidential contender and Baptist minister, was confirmed as ambassador to Israel by a vote of 53 to 46 on Wednesday, with senators largely divided along party lines.
President Trump announced Mr. Huckabee as his nominee for the role shortly after the election in November. “He loves Israel and the people of Israel,” the president-elect said, “and likewise, the people of Israel love him. Mike will work tirelessly to bring about Peace in the Middle East.”
But the nomination prompted an outcry from some Democrats and others on the left. Lawmakers, lobbyists and faith groups of various denominations raised objections, saying his positions on Israel and on Palestinians’ identity and national aspirations are divisive and undermine American interests. Only one Democrat, Senator John Fetterman of Pennsylvania, a staunch and outspoken supporter of Israel, crossed party lines to vote for Mr. Huckabee.
Here’s what you need to know about Mr. Huckabee’s position on Israel, Palestinians and the conflicts in the region.
What are his ties to Israel?
At his nomination hearing, Mr. Huckabee said that his first trip to Israel was in 1973 and that he had been moved by the experience. He described Israel as “holy ground to Jews, Christians and Muslims.”
His support for Israel is rooted in his belief that God made a covenant with the Jews in the Old Testament, giving them a claim to the land that stands. In 1981, Mr. Huckabee began leading trips to Israel and has taken about 10,000 people there in the years since, he told senators, visiting the country about 100 times.