Senate Confirms Haley As U.N. Ambassador

Nikki Haley stepped down as S.C. governor late Tuesday, Jan. 24, after being confirmed overwhelmingly as President Donald Trump's ambassador to the United Nations.

Following the state constitution, Lt. Gov. Henry McMaster officially assumed power as soon as Haley resigned and was sworn in as South Carolina's new governor at 6:30 p.m. in Columbia. He will serve the remainder of Haley's term, which runs through Jan. 19, 2019.

The Washington Post reported the Senate confirmation vote as 96-4, a reflection that some Democrats view Haley as a "sensible diplomat," who will "speak her mind in the new administration."

In her confirmation hearing, Haley disagreed with Trump's positions on Russia and NATO, saying she was suspicious of Moscow and optimistic about NATO. She also rejected the idea of a Muslim registry. She agreed with Trump on moving the U.S. embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem.

State reaction

Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C) said in a release that Haley was clearly the right choice to fill one of the highest diplomatic jobs in the United States.

"She has shown amazing leadership during very trying times in South Carolina, and I know that she will bring that same strength and resolve in reinforcing and strengthening our relationships with our allies," Scott said.

S.C House Majority Leader Gary Simrill (R-York) said Haley had left a positive mark in the Palmetto State.

"Gov. Haley left South Carolina better than she found it, and for that our state will always be grateful," he said.

S.C. House Speaker Jay Lucas called it a historic day for the state.

"I have no doubt U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley will serve the American people with the same compassion and diligence she has shown the citizens of South Carolina," he said.

State Treasurer Curtis Loftis called Haley a dear friend who genuinely loves her home state.

"Over the last seven years, she has led our state through many difficult challenges with dignity and compassion," Loftis said in a statement, "South Carolinians have been able to look to her leadership as a source of strength and reassurance."

Loftis said state leaders are ready to work with McMaster to assure a smooth transition.

Lucas said this is no time to look back and that he eagerly awaits working with McMaster "on pressing issues that must be addressed to move our state forward."