Washington, D.C. – President-elect Donald Trump has nominated Robert Lighthizer to head the U.S. Trade Representative office. Following the announcement, Steel Manufacturers Association President Philip K. Bell issued a statement:
“Robert Lighthizer is an excellent pick to serve as the U.S. Trade Representative, a position that is vitally important to 21st century steelmakers. Mr. Lighthizer has a track record of success both in the government and in the private sector, as well as a firm understanding of the impact of trade policies on U.S. manufacturers,” Bell said. “When combined with the selection of Peter Navarro to head the White House National Trade Council, the SMA is increasingly optimistic that the Trump administration is serious about addressing the unfair trade practices of some of our trading partners.”
SMA is North America’s largest steel trade association, and the primary association for electric arc furnace steel producers. SMA’s member companies account for over seventy-five percent of domestic steelmaking capacity.