David Brat, Ayn Rand expert who once argued Christianity and capitalism should merge, named as US ambassador to Australia

Republican, who has Masters of Divinity, represented Virginia in Congress for two terms Follow our Australia news live blog for latest updates Get our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcast Donald Trump has named the former Virginia congressman David Brat to be the next US ambassador to Australia, ending a 15-month vacancy in Canberra. Brat served two terms in Congress until 2018 when he was defeated by a Democrat in a close race.