The Senate on Friday confirmed former Florida congressman and Army Green Beret Mike Waltz as President Donald Trump’s ambassador to the United Nations, filling a critical diplomatic post just days before the annual United Nations General Assembly convenes in New York.

Waltz’s confirmation came by a 47–43 vote, ending months of delay in the Senate. While most Democrats opposed his nomination, Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) expressed support, citing his qualifications and experience. One Republican, Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY), broke with his party to vote against him, referencing positions Waltz had taken in the House related to U.S. troop withdrawals from Afghanistan.

The appointment allows Waltz to represent the United States during next week’s high-level session of the UN General Assembly,

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