Sen. Bernie Sanders Bernie SandersOutrage erupts over Breonna Taylor grand jury ruling Dimon: Wealth tax 'almost impossible to do' Grand jury charges no officers in Breonna Taylor death MORE (I-Vt.) says Rex Tillerson, President-elect Donald Trump Donald John TrumpBiden on Trump's refusal to commit to peaceful transfer of power: 'What country are we in?' Romney: 'Unthinkable and unacceptable' to not commit to peaceful transition of power Two Louisville police officers shot amid Breonna Taylor grand jury protests MORE’s choice for secretary of State, “must be opposed.”

“Mr. Trump's nomination of Rex Tillerson for secretary of State is sending a very troubling message to the international community,” Sanders said in a statement.

“Not only is Mr. Tillerson a pal of Russia's authoritarian leader, Vladimir Putin, but he is the head of one of the largest oil companies in the world,” he added.

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Tillerson is facing criticism from both Democrats and Republicans in Congress for his ties to Russia through his business dealing as the CEO of Exxon Mobil Corp.

“In this appointment, Mr. Trump is making it abundantly clear that the short-term profits of the fossil fuel industry are more important than climate change and the future of the planet. Very sad. Very dangerous. Mr. Tillerson must be opposed,” Sanders said.

Sanders's concern over Tillerson's dealings with Russia echoes comments made by Sanders’ Republican colleagues in the Senate, including Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) and Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.).

But others in the GOP have praised Trump's selection.

Senate Majority Whip John Cornyn John CornynThe Hill's Campaign Report: GOP set to ask SCOTUS to limit mail-in voting Liberal super PAC launches ads targeting vulnerable GOP senators over SCOTUS fight Senate GOP faces pivotal moment on pick for Supreme Court MORE (R-Texas) said Tillerson has shown "a keen ability to navigate complex geopolitical issues across the globe."

“His experience will be critical as the next Secretary of State will face a broad array of diplomatic challenges that will define the security and success of our nation for generations. A lifelong Texan, I’ve long valued Rex’s insight and look forward to supporting his nomination,” Cornyn said.