President-elect Donald Trump has announced billionaire investment banker Warren A. Stephens as his pick for U.S. ambassador to the United Kingdom, a decision that sparked mixed reactions on Monday.

Stephens, head of the Arkansas-based investment bank Stephens Inc., is a longtime Republican donor. Although initially opposed to Trump during the 2016 Republican primaries, Stephens later supported Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign through significant contributions to a political action committee.

“Warren has always dreamed of serving the United States full time. I am thrilled that he will now have that opportunity as the top Diplomat, representing the U.S.A. to one of America’s most cherished and beloved Allies,” Trump said in a Truth Social post.

This marks another high-profile appointment in Trump’s growing list of nominations ahead of his 20 January inauguration. Stephens follows in the footsteps of Woody Johnson, the billionaire owner of the New York Jets, who served as U.S. ambassador to the UK during Trump’s first term from 2017 to 2021.

The choice of Stephens dashed hopes among Jets fans who had wished for Johnson’s return to the diplomatic post. Johnson’s tenure as ambassador was seen as a high point for the franchise, as his absence allowed his brother Christopher Johnson to take over team operations and personnel decisions.

The Jets are currently enduring a difficult 3-9 season despite pre-season optimism, fueled by quarterback Aaron Rodgers’ anticipated return to full health and the acquisition of star receiver Davante Adams. The mid-season firing of head coach Robert Saleh and general manager Joe Douglas only deepened fan frustration.

While Trump’s choice of Stephens is pending Senate confirmation, Jets fans remain hopeful that Johnson might be appointed to another prominent role in the administration.

(Sources: AFP, Fox News)