US Chamber Urges Speedy Confirmation of USTR Nominee

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce urged Senate Finance Committee Chairman Orrin Hatch, R-Utah, and ranking member Ron Wyden, D-Ore., in a Wednesday letter to swiftly report U.S. Trade Representative nominee Robert Lighthizer out of committee (see 1703220015) for a Senate floor vote. “Mr. Lighthizer has led a distinguished career as a trade policy practitioner and has a reputation as a staunch advocate for American industry,” said Executive Vice President and Head-International Affairs Myron Brilliant. “He will represent the nation’s interests well as he works with international partners and addresses trade challenges at the negotiating table and before the World Trade Organization.” A committee spokesman said the committee hasn’t scheduled a vote on whether to clear Lighthizer, and the panel will announce it 48 hours in advance.