Trump Expected To Tap Lighthizer Acolyte To Be His Trade Chief
President Donald Trump is set to nominate a former aide to U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer as his next top trade negotiator, according to people familiar with the decision.
The move comes as the Trump administration prepares for a new round of trade talks with China. The White House has been considering several candidates for the post, including Clete Willems, a former Lighthizer aide who currently serves as a deputy assistant to the president for international economics. Willems is seen as a rising star in the trade world and is well-respected by both Republicans and Democrats.
Background
The United States and China have been engaged in a trade war since 2018, with each side imposing tariffs on billions of dollars worth of goods.
The two countries reached a “phase one” trade deal in January 2020, but the agreement has been criticized by some as being too narrow and not addressing the underlying issues in the U.S.-China trade relationship.
Key Facts and Latest Updates
The nomination of a new trade chief is expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
Willems is a former lobbyist for the steel industry and has also worked as a trade adviser to the U.S. Senate Finance Committee.
He is expected to continue the Trump administration’s tough approach to trade, but he may also be more willing to compromise with China than Lighthizer was.
Analysis or Impact
The nomination of a new trade chief is seen as a sign that the Trump administration is preparing for a new round of trade talks with China.
Willems’s nomination is likely to be welcomed by businesses that have been hurt by the trade war.
However, it is unclear if Willems will be able to reach a deal with China that is acceptable to both sides.
Conclusion
The nomination of a new trade chief is a significant step in the Trump administration’s trade policy.
Willems is a well-respected trade expert, but it remains to be seen if he will be able to reach a deal with China that is acceptable to both sides.
