McCain calls Australian envoy after stormy Trump-Turnbull talk

Senior Republican Senator John McCain seeks to assure Australia that the United States remains a staunch ally following a tense discussion between President Donald Trump and Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull over refugees.

McCain says in a statement that he spoke with Joe Hockey, Australia’s ambassador to the US, and expressed his “unwavering support for the US-Australia alliance.” The move came as Trump stressed the need for “tough” talk to make sure other nations don’t take advantage of the United States.

McCain, now in his sixth term in the Senate, has emerged as Trump’s top Republican nemesis in Congress. While GOP leaders on Capitol Hill have largely refrained from scolding the new president, McCain hasn’t been shy about calling Trump out.

— AP