, Columnist
Rubio’s Courtroom Moment Has 2028 Implications
Rivera and Rubio in their state-lawmaker days.
Photographer: Mark Foley/Florida House of Representatives
When Secretary of State Marco Rubio testified against his longtime ally David Rivera in federal court in Miami this week, it was reportedly the first time a sitting cabinet member had taken the stand in a criminal trial since 1983.
Rubio’s testimony wasn’t just remarkable for breaking a four-decade streak. It also carried a potential political upside. By breaking from a friend whose legal troubles have dogged Rubio for years, he may be able to minimize a political vulnerability ahead of a likely presidential run.