David Brat confirmed as US ambassador to Australia

The US Senate confirmed former Republican congressman David Brat as the United States ambassador to Australia, ending a vacancy that had lasted nearly two years. His confirmation was part of a block of 74 nominations approved on the Friday before the summer recess, and the nomination was made by former President Donald Trump in April.

Brat, known for his 2014 primary upset over House Speaker Eric Cantor, lost his Virginia seat in 2018 and later became senior vice‑president of business relations at Liberty University. He also appears on Steve Bannon’s MAGA podcast. The appointment allows him to arrive in Canberra ahead of the 75th anniversary of the ANZUS treaty, which will be commemorated on September 1.