Sen. Jeff Flake: Tillerson 'Smart Man,' Good Choice for State

Secretary of State nominee Rex Tillerson is "very smart man" who has done business in many countries, and has a inquisitive mind, and he should make an effective cabinet member, Sen. Jeff Flake said Wednesday.

"If there are other things to explore about the Russian relationship, I'll certainly bring it up," the Arizona Republican told MSNBC's "Morning Joe" program, stressing that a retired British intelligence officers reports concerning President-elect Donald Trump have not been verified.

"I think anyone would be concerned if the documents turn out to be verified, but they are unverified," said Flake. "But I've met with Mr. Tillerson and I've been impressed with the answers he has given me, and I assume he'll give the same answers to the committee that he'll put his past aside in terms of arguing for shareholders and for the best interest of the company, and put his experience and knowledge to good use for the country."

The report, though, does contain some falsehoods, but Flake said questions about it will likely come up in the Tillerson hearings.

Tillerson's relationships with Russian and President Vladimir Putin have come under question, as have his ties in the Middle East, as the Texan would be coming into office following his position of CEO for Exxon Mobil.

"I think it's hard for anyone to have a grasp of every region that is going on, but he is a very smart man and done business in a lot of countries and has an inquisitive mind," said Flake.

"I was impressed by that. I'm particularly concerned about Africa. I am on that committee so I asked several questions. What the U.S. is doing there and where he thinks we are being effective with our soft diplomacy.

"And where we could be more effective and I was impressed by his answers. He's a knowledgeable man and I think he is inquisitive and that will certainly help."

Flake said Tillerson has also promised that he'll represent the State Department, the president, and the American people if approved, much as he had represented the shareholders of Exxon.

"I do think that it's certainly a different role, but having said that, Exxon Mobil had various programs of corporate responsibilities in Africa, some of which I think have been effective with regard to malaria, and I think that he brings some experience that will be useful from the State Department there," said Flake.

• Tillerson to Call Russia 'a Danger' in Confirmation Hearing
• The Atlantic: What CNN Report on Tillerson Does, Doesn't Say