Howard Lutnick appointed as US Secretary of Commerce to oversee trade and tariffs

Howard Lutnick has been named the U.S. Secretary of Commerce, tasked with leading tariffs and trade policy. He will also have direct responsibility for the Office of the United States Trade Representative, although it is unclear if he will lead that office. Lutnick is a prominent figure in business, known for his long tenure at Cantor Fitzgerald. He has been co-chairing Donald Trump’s transition team, focusing on selecting candidates for key administration positions. Lutnick has expressed views similar to Trump regarding globalization, advocating for tariffs to protect American workers. His appointment marks a shift in leadership for U.S. trade policy under the new administration.