Vote on USTR nominee Lighthizer could come very soon.
Update: The Senate confirmed Robert Lighthizer as U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) on Thursday afternoon.
President Donald Trump is, uh, a little preoccupied at the moment, presumably looking for a new FBI director (my money’s on this guy).
Meanwhile, one of his cabinet positions remains unconfirmed, and it’s an important one: United States Trade Representative, the administration’s chief trade diplomat.
Good news, though! A vote in the Senate on President Trump’s nominee for the role, Robert Lighthizer, could come as early as this afternoon. And while there has been some Republican dissention, it’s expected he’ll be confirmed. The Wall Street Journal notes Lighthizer “has widespread support among Democrats, who enthusiastically embrace his call for tougher trade enforcement.” In fact, his nomination cleared the Senate Finance Committee back in April by a unanimous, bipartisan vote.
The Alliance for American Manufacturing (AAM) has sent a letter to all members of the Senate, urging them to support his confirmation. Said AAM President Scott Paul:
Lighthizer has been a champion for leveling the playing field for America's manufacturers and factory workers. He is uniquely qualified to represent U.S. trade interests and is the right choice to lead USTR.