Key trade leadership positions must be filled quickly
The Senate Finance Committee approved Robert Lighthizer's nomination as the United States Trade Representative (USTR) in a unanimous vote (26-0) Tuesday.
Said Alliance for American Manufacturing (AAM) President Scott Paul:
"We're one step closer to Mr. Lighthizer's confirmation, and encourage the full chamber to move his nomination through quickly.
"As Sen. Wyden mentioned today, key trade leadership positions, like the ITC slot, remain unfilled. These posts are vital to creating and protecting factory jobs. Until they're filled, our workers face more job loss due to China's industrial overcapacity and our massive trade deficit.
"Mr. Lighthizer fought to secure antidumping and countervailing duties against foreign companies who were violating U.S. trade law and is uniquely qualified to represent America's trade interests. As the administration investigates these issues, his experience is needed to create and enforce policy that levels the playing field for America's workers."