Former Missouri Congressman Billy Long, President Donald J. Trump’s nominee for U.S. Ambassador to Iceland, drew laughter during his Senate confirmation hearing after joking that Iceland could one day become America’s 52nd state, with him serving as its governor. The lighthearted comment came as senators questioned Long about his qualifications and the U.S.–Iceland relationship, setting an informal tone for a post in one of the world’s most stable and strategically important Nordic nations.

Long, a former real estate auctioneer who served six terms in Congress from 2011 to 2021, is a longtime Trump ally. During the hearing, he addressed Iceland’s role as a NATO partner and key Arctic player, particularly as U.S. officials grow more concerned about Russian and Chinese activity in the region. His joke, while clearly not serious, underscored the close ties between Washington and Reykjavik and reflected the plainspoken style that defined his time in Congress.

Iceland, which has no standing military and relies heavily on NATO and U.S. security support, remains a critical partner in the North Atlantic. Long’s nomination fits Trump’s broader approach of appointing loyal political allies to diplomatic posts. With Republicans controlling the Senate, his confirmation is widely expected to move forward without major resistance.