a key player in ensuring the success of his agenda on the hill. >> i've come to appreciate him. you know, honestly, he is like a fine wine. every day goes by, i get to appreciate his genius more and more. if he ever goes against me, i'm not going to say that, okay. >> reporter: trump is doing defense work of his own, using his thank you tour to defend his pick for secretary of state. exxonmobil ceo rex tillerson. >> rex is friendly with many of the leaders in the world that we don't get along with. >> reporter: now, as for those concerns about rex tillerson, among some on the hill, donald trump's transition advisers are certain that once senator meet with the candidate they'll change their tune and ultimately vote in support of him. we'll see if he passes through the senate with flying colors, jake. >> sara murray, thank you so much. let's turn to a republican senator serving on homeland