JD Vance swears in Howard Lutnick as Donald Trump’s commerce secretary at the White House
President Donald Trump appointed Howard Lutnick as the new secretary of commerce, with Vice President JD Vance swearing him in at the White House on Friday. Trump emphasized Lutnick’s understanding of business and highlighted job growth as a key priority for his new role.
Lutnick, the former chair and CEO of Cantor Fitzgerald, expressed support for Trump’s tariff proposals during his confirmation hearing before the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation. He stated that the U.S. could use tariffs to create reciprocity and address any imbalances in trade relationships with other countries.
The Trump administration has directed federal agencies to investigate the possibility of imposing reciprocal tariffs to ensure fair trade practices. Lutnick announced that a report on the issue will be completed by April 1, indicating a proactive approach to addressing trade concerns.
In order to avoid any conflicts of interest, Lutnick pledged to sell all his business interests upon confirmation. He reassured lawmakers that his focus would solely be on serving the American people, demonstrating a commitment to ethical conduct in his new role.
Following a close Senate vote of 51-45, Lutnick was officially confirmed as the new secretary of commerce. His appointment marks a significant step in the Trump administration’s efforts to prioritize job growth and economic stability.
Contributors Deirdre Heavey and Aubrie Spady provided additional insights for this report, highlighting the significance of Lutnick’s appointment in shaping future trade policies.
Author Diana Stancy, a politics reporter with Fox News Digital, covered the White House proceedings and captured the key points of Lutnick’s swearing-in ceremony and confirmation process. Her thorough reporting provides valuable context for understanding the implications of Lutnick’s new role in the Trump administration.
