USTR Confirmation Needed Before NAFTA Next Steps, Spicer Says

The Trump administration will start the formal NAFTA renegotiation process after the Senate confirms U.S. Trade Representative nominee Robert Lighthizer, said White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer. “USTR drives that,” Spicer said. “And so our focus is getting that done, and then we'll be ready to go.” A more detailed work plan for renegotiating NAFTA -- including submittal of the required 90-day notice to Congress before international negotiations can begin in earnest -- will likely materialize after Lighthizer’s prospective confirmation, Spicer said Monday. “But as of right now, that's not there.” Speaking Tuesday to a group of CEOs, President Donald Trump said renegotiating NAFTA will bring "some very pleasant surprises," said a pool report. The Senate Finance Committee postponed its consideration of Lighthizer until after the Senate’s spring break (see 1704070016) ending April 24.