Hoeven Statement on Confirmation of Robert Lighthizer as U.S. Trade Representative

WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven today issued the following statement after the Senate confirmed Robert Lighthizer as the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR): 

“Trade is an essential part of our state’s economy, supporting our farmers, ranchers, energy producers and manufacturers,” Hoeven said. “Robert Lighthizer has extensive experience in trade policy and foreign affairs and served as deputy trade representative under President Reagan, where he negotiated roughly two dozen international agreements. I look forward to working with him on empowering our nation’s businesses to compete around the world and pushing back against unfair trade practices.”

Hoeven has worked to expand access to foreign markets and ensure fair treatment for North Dakota’s industries. Among other things, his efforts include:

·        Backing the USTR in bringing a compliance case against China in the World Trade Organization (WTO). Under its WTO obligations, China would have imported as much as $3.5 billion worth of additional U.S. wheat, corn and rice in 2015 alone.

·        Lifting the ban on U.S. oil exports, which Hoeven, a member of the Senate Energy and Appropriations Committees, worked to include in 2015’s year-end funding legislation.

·        Ensuring domestic honey producers receive all of the proceeds collected from settlements for unfair trade practices.

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