Which of the following statements best applies to the role of an ambassador?

a. An ambassador is a political appointment and is largely symbolic of good relations with other countries.
b. An ambassador serves as the president’s official representative within a country and is responsible for protecting and promoting U.S. interests abroad.
c. An ambassador is similar in status to a cabinet member and is frequently consulted by the president and members of the National Security Council.
d. An ambassador’s primary objective is to engage outside actors—such as scholars, celebrities, and other recognizable figures—to promote U.S. interests abroad.

b. An ambassador serves as the president’s official representative within a country and is responsible for protecting and promoting U.S. interests abroad.