According to a statement dated July 21, 2026, released by the White House, Checker was among several nominees whose names were submitted to the Senate for confirmation.

The nominee brings experience in US foreign policy, national security and Africa affairs.

He recently served as Deputy Assistant Secretary for Southern Africa and Foreign Assistance at the US Department of State’s Bureau of African Affairs from June 1 to July 18, 2026.

Before that, he served as the Senior Bureau Official leading the Bureau of African Affairs from January to June 2026.

Prior to joining the State Department, Checker served as Deputy Executive Secretary for the National Security Council under President Donald Trump.

Between 2014 and 2025, he worked at the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), where he covered conflicts in the greater Middle East and the Horn of Africa, as well as assignments in the Office of Congressional Affairs.

In 2023, he served as a national security fellow in the office of US Senator Bill Hagerty of Tennessee.

Checker holds a bachelor’s degree in history and political science from the University of Wisconsin and a master’s degree in Security Studies from Georgetown University.

If confirmed by the US Senate, Checker will succeed Eric Kneedler, who concluded his tour of duty as US Ambassador to Rwanda early 2026.

Kneedler formally assumed the ambassadorial role on October 18, 2023, after presenting his letters of credence to President Paul Kagame at Urugwiro Village.

He had succeeded Peter H. Vrooman, who served as US Ambassador to Rwanda before him.

During his time in Kigali, Kneedler engaged with Rwandan authorities on strengthening bilateral relations between Rwanda and the United States, including cooperation in areas such as health, development, security and economic partnerships.

Checker’s nomination comes as Rwanda and the United States continue diplomatic engagement spanning more than six decades, with cooperation covering trade and investment, public health, development initiatives and regional security.