Hunt Prepares for New Role as Ambassador to Saudi Arabia

U.S. Rep. Wesley Hunt has been nominated as ambassador to Saudi Arabia, a post that has been vacant for nearly two years. As he prepares for his new role, Hunt should be aware of the complex relationships between the U.S. and Saudi governments, as well as major oil companies.

The ties between the two countries go back decades, with CEOs of major oil companies meeting regularly with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman al-Saud without involving or briefing the ambassador-elect.

Hunt should also be aware that his predecessors may have relied too heavily on the 'deep state,' which can lead to distrust and uncooperative staff. Instead, he should give his career staff the benefit of the doubt and work together with them to achieve their goals.

As ambassador, Hunt will reside in Riyadh's Diplomatic Quarter, where diplomats often gather to trade information and gossip about the Saudi government. He is advised to avoid this echo chamber and instead strive to meet people from all walks of life, including those who may not be connected to the diplomatic community.