A new national survey indicates that Secretary of State Marco Rubio is viewed positively by nearly half of likely U.S. voters, reflecting an increase in his standing as he plays a leading role in President Donald Trump’s foreign policy efforts.

According to the Rasmussen Reports poll, 47% of likely voters have a favorable opinion of Rubio, including 25% who describe their view as “very favorable.” This marks a slight increase from 45% recorded a year ago.

In contrast, 36% of respondents hold an unfavorable view of Rubio, while 16% say they are unsure.

The findings point to a growing national profile for Rubio as he takes on major diplomatic responsibilities tied to the Trump administration’s agenda, including sensitive initiatives in Latin America and the Middle East.

The survey also explored how voters assess Rubio’s performance compared to past secretaries of state. It found that 36% believe he is doing a better job than most of his predecessors, while 35% say he is performing worse. Another 18% feel his performance is about the same.

Republican voters show particularly strong support for Rubio, with 71% expressing a favorable opinion and 59% saying he is outperforming previous secretaries of state.

Among Democrats, however, opposition is pronounced, with 73% saying they view Rubio unfavorably, underscoring the sharp partisan divide over the administration’s foreign policy.

The poll highlights Rubio’s strength among Hispanic voters, with 64% viewing him favorably — a notable figure given his background as a Miami-born politician of Cuban descent and his prominent role in shaping U.S. policy toward Latin America.

Among white and Black voters, Rubio holds a 44% favorability rating, according to the survey.

Men are more likely than women to express a positive opinion of Rubio, and voters in their 30s show the highest level of support among age groups.

Support is strongest among conservatives, with 75% reporting a favorable view of the secretary of state.

The Rasmussen survey was conducted from March 16 to March 18 among 1,092 likely voters and carries a margin of error of plus or minus 3 percentage points.

Rubio’s improved numbers domestically come as his visibility on the global stage also appears to be increasing.

An international poll conducted by AtlasIntel for Bloomberg News found that Rubio ranks among the most favorably viewed political figures in Venezuela following U.S.-backed efforts to stabilize the country after the removal of strongman Nicolas Maduro.

Rubio has stressed the importance of restoring stability and advancing democratic elections in Venezuela, arguing that conditions there are already improving after years of socialist governance.

“I will say this without apology or fear: Venezuela is better today than it was eight weeks ago,” Rubio said recently, pointing to progress while acknowledging more work remains.

Overall, the Rasmussen data suggests that Rubio’s prominent diplomatic role and close alignment with President Trump’s America First approach are resonating with a significant segment of the electorate, even as critics continue to voice opposition.

With international challenges continuing to evolve, Rubio’s rising favorability may position him as a central figure in shaping U.S. foreign policy — and potentially as a contender in the 2028 Republican presidential race.