Donald Trump's choice for ambassador to South Africa told senators the country's genocide case against Israel represents an injustice he will work to end. Leo Brent Bozell III testified before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee on Wednesday, October 23, and said ending the International Court of Justice proceedings would be a top priority. The conservative activist also defended plans to offer refuge to white Afrikaners facing what he described as racial discrimination.
Democratic senators challenged Bozell over claims of genocide against white farmers and questioned whether refugee policies would favor applicants by race. Senator Chris Van Hollen asked if race-based admission standards violated American principles, but Bozell said he does not set policy. The nominee faced questions about his 1980s opposition to anti-apartheid legislation, though he praised Nelson Mandela as South Africa's most respected figure.
Republicans control the Senate with 53 seats and are expected to confirm Bozell despite Democratic objections. Chairman Jim Risch urged the nominee to confront South African corruption and relationships with China, Russia, and Iran. Trump froze aid to South Africa and expelled its ambassador after accusing the government of anti-white policies.
Democratic senators challenged Bozell over claims of genocide against white farmers and questioned whether refugee policies would favor applicants by race. Senator Chris Van Hollen asked if race-based admission standards violated American principles, but Bozell said he does not set policy. The nominee faced questions about his 1980s opposition to anti-apartheid legislation, though he praised Nelson Mandela as South Africa's most respected figure.
Republicans control the Senate with 53 seats and are expected to confirm Bozell despite Democratic objections. Chairman Jim Risch urged the nominee to confront South African corruption and relationships with China, Russia, and Iran. Trump froze aid to South Africa and expelled its ambassador after accusing the government of anti-white policies.
