Trump Aide Dan Scavino Sends Ominous Message to Australia’s Ambassador Kevin Rudd

Dan Scavino, a close aide to President-elect Donald Trump, has sparked controversy with a cryptic social media post that appears to be a warning to Kevin Rudd, Australia‘s ambassador to the United States. On Tuesday, Scavino shared a post from Rudd congratulating Trump on his election victory, but he accompanied it with an animated GIF of sand trickling through an hourglass. This gesture is often interpreted as a sign that someone’s “time’s up”.

Scavino, who served in Trump’s previous administration as the White House deputy chief of staff for communications and director of social media, has a history of close association with Trump. His post has been seen as a potential signal that Rudd’s tenure as ambassador might be under scrutiny due to his past critical comments about Trump. Rudd has previously described Trump as “the most destructive president in history,” “nuts,” and a “traitor to the West”.

Rudd, who has been Australia’s ambassador to the US since March 2023, had deleted several critical posts about Trump from his social media account after the election results were clear. Despite these actions, the tension between Rudd and the incoming Trump administration remains palpable. Trump himself had previously described Rudd as “nasty” and suggested he would not last long as ambassador if Trump were re-elected.

However, it is important to note that the decision regarding Rudd’s position as ambassador is not within the purview of the US government. The Australian government, specifically the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and the foreign minister, have the authority to appoint and retain ambassadors. Foreign Minister Penny Wong has expressed support for Rudd, stating that he would remain in his role regardless of the US presidential election outcome.

The situation highlights the complex diplomatic landscape ahead as Trump prepares to take office in January. While Scavino’s role in the next White House administration is yet to be announced, his actions suggest that the new administration may be keenly aware of and responsive to criticisms from foreign officials.