Economics
Tillerson Challenge Is Showing Senators He’s More Than Big Oil
- Senators will zero in on Tillerson’s Russia-Exxon connections
- Secretary of state nominee will be pressed on Trump’s views
Trump's Top Diplomat Comes With Love From Russia
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Rex Tillerson helped seal multibillion-dollar deals from Venezuela to Russia as Exxon Mobil Corp.’s CEO. Now senators weighing his nomination for secretary of state will want to know if he can be as effective working for the U.S. -- even when it conflicts with the interests of “Big Oil.”
Tillerson’s business background, and lack of experience in government, is unprecedented for someone in line to become America’s top diplomat. Heading into his confirmation hearing Wednesday, he faces questions about his business links to Russian President Vladimir Putin, and will be pressed to answer for -- or disavow -- President-elect Donald Trump’s own call for warmer relations with the Russian leader.