Commerce General Counsel Nominee Davidson Gets Favorable Senate Confirmation Hearing

Department of Commerce general counsel nominee Peter Davidson, former Verizon senior vice president-federal government relations, said at his confirmation hearing Wednesday that he would ensure FirstNet is implemented as quickly as possible and the statute is "followed to the letter." Davidson responded to Sen. James Inhofe, R-Okla., who asked what Davidson's role would be in that program. Davidson, nominated by President Donald Trump a month ago, received a favorable hearing and got few questions. Davidson told senators he would support policies that remove investment and innovation barriers to U.S. tech companies and protect against any unfair and restrictive policies of foreign governments. He said he would support Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross' commitments to increased U.S. market access, defend American workers against unfair practices and seek new trade agreements. Before Verizon, Davidson was general counsel to the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, among other government positions.