The nominee for the US ambassador to Singapore, Anjani Sinha, drew criticism during his Senate confirmation hearing when he struggled to answer questions about the island-state.
On Wednesday Dr Sinha was grilled by Senator Tammy Duckworth on the US's relationship with Singapore and the island-state's role in South East Asia.
At one point Ms Duckworth told him he was "unqualified" for the posting, and that he needed to "shape up and do some homework". The exchange has since gone viral in Singapore and attracted critical comments online.
Dr Sinha's nomination was first announced by Donald Trump in March, when the US President praised him as a "highly respected entrepreneur".
"I have no doubt that Anji will strongly represent our Nation's Interests, and put America First. Congratulations Anji!" said Trump in a Truth Social post, using a nickname for Dr Sinha.
