Donald Trump Appoints Howard Lutnick as Secretary of Commerce, Promises Trade Overhaul

Donald Trump Announces Howard Lutnick as Commerce Secretary

Donald Trump has chosen Howard Lutnick, the CEO of Cantor Fitzgerald, as his Secretary of Commerce. Lutnick, who served as Trump’s transition co-chair, will oversee the administration’s tariff and trade policies.

In his announcement, Trump stated, “He will lead our Tariff and Trade agenda, with additional direct responsibility for the Office of the United States Trade Representative.”

Lutnick had previously competed with Scott Bessent for the Treasury secretary role before ultimately receiving the Commerce position. This decision surprised many, as McMahon had been considered a leading candidate for the role. Recently, Lighthizer seemed closer to securing it, but Trump decided to go with Lutnick.

For months, Lutnick and McMahon co-chaired the transition team, with Lutnick focusing on personnel and McMahon on policy. McMahon felt frustrated by the delay in naming her for the Commerce role, especially after she learned that Lutnick would take the position instead.

The Secretary of Commerce plays a vital role in supporting U.S. businesses and negotiating trade deals. The department includes 13 bureaus, such as the Census Bureau and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

During Trump’s previous term, then-Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross was instrumental in the trade war with China and advocated for higher tariffs. At a recent campaign rally, Lutnick emphasized that the U.S. thrived in the early 1900s due to tariffs, claiming, “We had so much money that we had the greatest businessmen of America get together to try to figure out how to spend it.”

Lutnick is a proponent of higher tariffs. As a candidate, Trump pledged to impose significant tariffs on goods from China and other nations.

After the September 11 attacks, Lutnick initiated a relief fund for families affected by the tragedy. Cantor Fitzgerald lost many employees during the attacks, including Lutnick’s brother. He currently serves on the board of the National September 11 Memorial and Museum.

This story has been updated with additional developments.