Trump nominates Florida auto giant John Arrigo for ambassador to Portugal

President-elect Donald Trump on Christmas Eve nominated Florida automaker and golfer John Arrigo for ambassador to Portugal. 

Trump praised Arrigo, who is the vice president of the Arrigo Auto Group, in West Palm Beach, Florida, as a "successful entrepreneur in the automotive industry, and a champion golfer." He also said Arrigo is an "incredible leader" in the area.

"It is my great honor to announce that John Arrigo will serve as the next United States Ambassador to Portugal," the president-elect said in a post on Truth Social. "For over thirty years, he has been an incredible leader in business in West Palm Beach, and is respected by all. I have known John for a long time. He will do an incredible job for our Country, and always put America FIRST." 

Trump also nominated New York model and philanthropist Somers Farkas for ambassador to Malta. 

Farkas previously served on Trump's Commission on White House Fellowships during his first term and has raised millions for various charity organizations, including the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, Lighthouse Guild, the New York Women’s Foundation and the New York City Police Foundation.

Arrigo and Farkas will still need to be confirmed by the Senate next month, when Congress returns from the holidays.

Misty Severi is a news reporter for Just The News. You can follow her on X for more coverage.