Investment banker Warren Stephens has been confirmed by the Senate as the U.S. ambassador to the United Kingdom.

Stephens, who donated money to Donald Trump‘s opponents before later throwing his financial support behind the president, will be tasked with maintaining the “special relationship” between Washington and London.

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The Senate confirmed Stephens by a 59-39 vote Tuesday afternoon. Several Senate Democrats joined all Republicans to vote for the nomination, including Sens. John Fetterman (D-PA), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), and Mark Warner (D-VA).

Stephens, from Little Rock, Arkansas, led Stephens Inc., his family’s investment firm, as CEO from 1986 until he stepped down upon being nominated in January. He continues to serve as chairman of the firm.

A longtime GOP megadonor, Stephens was the largest individual contributor to Trump’s $239 million inauguration fund, ranking third overall behind two corporations.

At the outset of his Senate confirmation hearing in early April, Stephens emphasized his commitment to advancing Trump’s America First policy when he heads across the Atlantic Ocean.

“If confirmed, I promise to advance the America First agenda throughout the United Kingdom and to build upon the special relationship that is so critical to both of our countries,” Stephens said during his testimony.

During Stephens’s confirmation hearing, Sen. Jim Risch (R-ID), the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, highlighted the delicate diplomatic balance that Stephens will need to maintain between the two countries.

“Friends need to be candid with one another,” Risch said. “While the U.K. has announced goals to spend 2.5% of GDP [on defense], European security requires a much higher level.”

Trump has introduced tariffs affecting U.K. exports, including a 10% levy on British goods and a 25% tariff on foreign vehicles, prompting the U.K. to consider reciprocal measures.

In a recent meeting in Washington, British Chancellor Rachel Reeves and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent acknowledged a possible “landing zone” for a bilateral trade agreement. While both sides expressed optimism, no definitive resolution has been reached.

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The U.S. ambassadorship to the U.K. is regarded as one of the most prestigious diplomatic assignments, often awarded to people with significant political connections or contributions.

Historically, presidents from both major parties have appointed prominent donors or loyalists to this coveted post. Former President Joe Biden appointed Jane Hartley, a business executive and Democratic fundraiser, to the same position.