ORLANDO, Fla. - President-elect Donald Trump has announced the appointment of Orlando attorney Dan Newlin as the next U.S. ambassador to Colombia.
Newlin, a former Orange County Sheriff's Office detective with a multi-year law enforcement career, was praised by Trump for his blend of law enforcement expertise and business acumen.
"With his Law Enforcement expertise enabling him to navigate complex international issues, and his business insights fostering economic partnerships, Newlin stands as a powerful advocate for U.S. interests, and a Champion for strengthening ties, and making a difference in the World," Trump wrote in a post on Truth Social. "Dan will do a great job!"
RELATED: Attorney Dan Newlin hosts big-money Trump fundraiser at his Florida home
Newlin hosted a fundraiser for Trump earlier this year with tickets ranging from $5,000 to more than $824,000, as FOX 35 News reported in April. At the time, the Trump Campaign estimated it raised around $15 million.
During the Republican National Convention in July, a somber and bandaged Trump reflected on an assassination attempt that nearly claimed his life. He called for a moment of silence for Corey Comperatore, a retired fire chief killed at the rally. After walking over to a firefighter uniform representing Comperatore and kissing the helmet, Trump returned to the podium.
In a surprising moment, Trump announced a fundraiser to support the families of the victims who were shot, pulling out a check for $1 million. That check was from Newlin.
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"A friend of mine, he just called up. He sent me a check. It's right here; I just got it. One million dollars from Dan Newlin. Thank you, Dan," Trump said.
Newlin posted on social media that same day, "It has always been of utmost importance to me to bridge the divide and unite Americans, regardless of their political affiliations. Together, we have the power to achieve extraordinary feats and create a future that fills us with boundless excitement and pride for the United States of America."
FOX 35 News has reached out to Newlin for comment and is awaiting a response.