Former NFL star Herschel Walker, 62, will be the Bahamas’ new ambassador. President-elect Donald Trump announced this in a post on Truth Social. President Trump described Walker as a “successful businessman, philanthropist, and former Heisman Trophy winner.”
The announcement caused a stir in diplomatic circles and shocked many, thanks to Walker’s controversial anti-abortion stance and alleged aggression in his private life.
Walker’s nomination to become ambassador must be approved by the Republican-led Senate next year.
Here’s what you need to know about Herschel Walker.
Walker served as co-chair of the Council on Health, Nutrition and Fitness during President Trump’s first administration. However, he had no prior diplomatic experience.
He came into the spotlight after Trump chose him as his Republican candidate for Georgia’s Senate seat against incumbent Democrat Raphael Warnock.
His strict anti-abortion beliefs, even in cases of rape and incest, have been a controversial topic that he has persevered through through his political bent.
During the election campaign, allegations surfaced that he paid for abortions for two ex-girlfriends. His ex-wife also claimed that he held a gun to her head and threatened to kill her.
Mr. Walker’s relationship with Mr. Trump dates back to the early 1980s, when he played for the New Jersey Generals, a United States Football League team owned by the future president.
(With input from AP)
