Who Is Mark Savaya? The Businessman Trump Chose as U.S. Envoy to Iraq

The appointment by U.S. President Donald Trump of Iraqi-American businessman Mark Savaya as the United States’ Special Envoy to the Republic of Iraq has sparked widespread political and media debate, given his purely commercial background and lack of traditional diplomatic experience.

Savaya comes from a Chaldean American family, one of the Iraqi communities that settled in Michigan, where the Detroit area is considered a major center of Chaldean presence in the United States. He grew up in an environment shaped by strong family values and the entrepreneurial spirit for which the Chaldean community is well known, owning numerous grocery stores, restaurants, and real-estate businesses. This upbringing instilled in him a passion for entrepreneurship and risk-taking from an early age.

Early Life and Business Career in Detroit

Savaya was raised in Detroit and its suburbs, where he later built his business empire. He founded several successful ventures, most notably Leaf & Bud, one of Michigan’s largest medical and recreational cannabis retail chains. He also launched Future Grow Solutions, a company specializing in high-efficiency vertical farming systems, and Savaya Ventures Group, which includes investments in real estate, marketing, and luxury branding.

Savaya is known for his innovative marketing approach and his ability to turn brands into success stories that resonate with younger consumers and emerging markets.

Relationship With Trump and Political Support

Mark Savaya gained prominence in U.S. political circles after becoming a notable supporter of President Trump during the 2020 election campaign. He made substantial financial contributions and played a key role in mobilizing the Chaldean and Muslim communities in Michigan in Trump’s favor, earning recognition within the president’s inner circle.

Savaya has appeared at political events attended by close Trump allies and has been photographed with members of the Trump family, as well as influential figures such as Elon Musk and J.D. Vance.

Appointment as Special Envoy to Iraq

On October 19, 2025, President Trump officially announced Savaya’s appointment as Special Envoy to Iraq, stating that his Chaldean heritage and deep understanding of U.S.–Iraq relations make him well suited to advancing American interests in the region.

Trump said Savaya “brings a new commercial and diplomatic vision capable of building bridges between Baghdad and Washington,” describing him as “someone who understands the region and represents the voice of American success emerging from immigrant communities.”

Controversy and Reactions

The appointment drew mixed reactions. Trump supporters welcomed the move, arguing that Savaya’s success as a businessman and his Iraqi roots give him a unique ability to communicate with and build trust among Iraqi stakeholders.

By contrast, former diplomats criticized the decision, saying Savaya lacks foreign policy and diplomatic experience, and that the appointment reflects Trump’s tendency to favor loyal supporters over career diplomats.

Savaya responded to his appointment on X (formerly Twitter), saying:“I am honored to serve my country in this historic role, and I will work to strengthen U.S.–Iraq relations in a spirit of cooperation and mutual respect under President Trump’s leadership.”

Savaya’s rise represents a unique model combining immigrant identity, business success, and political ambition. His new role as special envoy to Iraq will serve as a real test of the ability of American businessmen of Middle Eastern origin to play influential political roles in Washington and the wider region.