Darren Beattie, a former Donald Trump speechwriter who faced controversy for speaking at a conference with White nationalists, has been appointed as the acting Under Secretary for Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs at the State Department. Despite being ousted from the Trump administration in 2018, Beattie founded Revolver News, a right-wing media outlet known for promoting false conspiracy theories about the January 6 Capitol attack. Beattie has a history of making racially charged comments and controversial remarks, including praising individuals with controversial views on race and intelligence.

His appointment has sparked criticism due to his past statements and actions, such as promoting conspiracy theories, endorsing violence, and attacking US allies. Beattie’s inflammatory rhetoric and controversial tweets have drawn scrutiny and backlash, with concerns raised about his fitness for a key role in shaping US messaging abroad related to counterterrorism and violent extremism. His firing from the Trump administration did not diminish his loyalty to Trump, as evidenced by his continued support and subsequent appointment to a commission by Trump in late 2020.

Beattie’s history of divisive and racially charged rhetoric, along with his past associations with White nationalists and controversial conspiracy theories, have raised questions about his suitability for a prominent position in the State Department. The appointment reflects the Trump administration’s confrontational approach to diplomacy, signaling a contentious stance on the world stage.