State Dept. official spread false smear about Rubio’s sexuality: ‘What happens in the cabana stays in the cabana’

A series of recently unearthed tweets reveals that the acting under-secretary of state for public diplomacy spread a homophobic rumor about Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

CNN’s Andrew Kaczynski and Em Steck published a piece on Monday exposing the deleted tweets of Darren Beattie, a top State Department official. These messages include calling Rubio “low IQ,” as well as taking shots at Tim Scott saying the black lawmaker needs to “learn his place.

(Screengrab: Wayback Machine)
(Screengrab: Wayback Machine)
(Screengrab: Wayback Machine)
(Screengrab: Wayback Machine)

The “Wainwright Park” reference was a callback from Rubio’s teenage years, consisting of a curfew violation that was eventually twisted by his opponents to imply he is a homosexual. Additionally, the “foam” comment refers to baseless claims that Rubio attended gay “foam parties.” In a follow-up tweet, Beattie also cryptically said “What happens in the cabana stays in the cabana.”

(Screengrab: Wayback Machine)

Beattie, who previously served as President Donald Trump’s speechwriter, was elevated to a top State Department position in early 2025. This sparked much condemnation for the left, as he originally lost his job after speaking at a conference with White nationals in attendance. In response to some questions from CNN, Beattie sang Rubio’s praises in direct contradiction to his previous beliefs.

“Secretary Rubio is 100 percent America First and it’s a tremendous honor to work for him in advancing President Trump’s world historical agenda.”

In another tweet, Beattie asked if voters would “be a good dog” and vote for Rubio “if a bunch of DC wonks try to reinvent” him.

(Screengrab: Wayback Machine)

“Rubio has declined to comment on Beattie’s past offensive statements and said that Beattie’s role would focus on perceived online censorship. He has also said Beattie will not be nominated for the full-time position, which requires Senate confirmation. Acting officials can serve for 300 days,” CNN reported.

Sierra Marlee

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