Rubio: America’s Values Rooted in Western Civilization
Secretary Rubio discusses America’s heritage, foreign policy, and global influence in exclusive interview.
5 min read
WASHINGTON — Secretary of State Marco Rubio sat down with Breitbart News in Washington, D.C., for an exclusive interview following his recent address at the Acropolis in Athens, Greece. In the speech, Rubio described Americans as “the heirs” of Western Civilization, emphasizing the deep historical roots of the values that define the United States. During the interview, he elaborated on the significance of these values and how they shape U.S. foreign policy under President Donald Trump.
America’s Heritage and the Core of Foreign Policy
Rubio explained that the message from his Acropolis speech is at the core of the America First foreign policy agenda. He emphasized that the United States’ system of government, culture, and values are not just abstract ideals but are grounded in thousands of years of shared history. He stated, “We are the heirs—we inherited from Greece and from Rome, and ultimately through Europe, many of the values that today underpin our country.”
Rubio acknowledged that some people may view this perspective as an attack on other cultures, but he clarified that he is simply advocating for cultural pride. He pointed out that the West is the only civilization today that seems apologetic about its history and achievements, which he believes has a dramatic impact on foreign policy. “It is important for us to remind ourselves that we too are heirs to a great civilization that has done great things for humanity and for the world,” he said.
Global Reception and Policy Shifts
Rubio noted that many European and other Western leaders are gradually coming around to embracing the Trump administration’s vision of the world. He mentioned that after his speech at the Munich Security Conference earlier this year and a similar address by Vice President JD Vance last year, there has been a shift in private conversations with leaders around the world. “I’ve noticed they are receptive to what we’re saying, and even privately, a lot of leaders will tell you ‘that was a great speech—we agree with you,’” he said.
However, Rubio acknowledged that translating this receptivity into policy takes time. He explained that many leaders are still wary of the potential backlash from their far-left factions, media, academia, and bureaucracy. “There is still worry that signing up for this point of view and speaking the way we have will open them up to criticisms from their far left, from their media, from their academia, from their entrenched bureaucracy,” he said.
Rubio believes that as more leaders begin to openly support these views, the shift in policy will become more tangible. “What you’re really going to start seeing is that play out in elections as more and more leaders are willing to say these things and then get elected,” he said. “That is ultimately what is going to shift the way other countries respond to our shared interests.”
Focus on the Job and 2028 Speculation
During the interview, Rubio addressed questions about his potential run for president in 2028, particularly in light of Vice President JD Vance’s possible candidacy. He made it clear that he has already stated all he would say on the matter and is not answering any more questions about it. “I’ve said everything. I’ve already said things. Like it doesn’t matter how many times you say it. So at this point, I’m just not answering any more 2028 questions,” he said.
Rubio emphasized that everyone in the administration, including himself, Vice President Vance, and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, is focused on doing their jobs. “I’m doing my job. I have two jobs, and I’m focused on them—and they take like every hour of the day. Sometimes I don’t have enough hours in the day, depending on the day, to deal with my job,” he said.
He also reiterated that his role as Secretary of State is to represent the United States on the international stage. “I think people, if people like the speech, I think they should be happy and pleased that their Secretary of State is delivering an important message on the global stage,” he said. “I’m just doing my job. Everybody here is doing their job.”
Legacy of Western Civilization and Global Impact
Rubio’s speech at the Acropolis was widely discussed for its emphasis on the legacy of Western civilization. He argued that the United States’ democratic institutions, legal systems, and cultural values are the result of a shared historical heritage. “A lot of people view that as an attack on other cultures. It’s not. I’m just saying every culture should be proud of themselves,” he said.
He also highlighted the importance of rediscovering and embracing this shared history, which he believes is essential for the United States and other Western nations to maintain their influence and stability. “We’re doing that here in this country under President Trump. We want more Western leaders to do the same,” he said.
Rubio’s comments reflect a broader narrative within the Trump administration that the United States should take pride in its historical and cultural roots while simultaneously asserting its global leadership. This vision is seen as a counterpoint to what he describes as a growing trend of Western self-criticism and a lack of confidence in the strength of Western values.
Conclusion and Forward Outlook
Rubio’s remarks underscore the administration’s commitment to promoting American values and fostering a renewed sense of pride in Western civilization. He expressed confidence that as more leaders begin to embrace this perspective, the impact on global policy and international relations will become more pronounced. “I think what you’re really going to start seeing is that play out in elections as more and more leaders are willing to say these things and then get elected,” he said.
As the Trump administration continues to shape its foreign policy, Rubio’s emphasis on historical legacy and cultural pride is likely to remain a central theme. His comments at the Acropolis and the subsequent interview with Breitbart News highlight the ongoing efforts to redefine the United States’ role in the world and reaffirm its place as a leader in the Western civilization.
Source: Breitbart
