Former President Trump's pick for U.S. Trade Representative, Jamieson Greer, has successfully navigated the Senate Finance Committee, moving one step closer to confirmation. The committee voted 15-12 in favor of Greer, with all Republican members and one Democrat, Senator Sheldon Whitehouse of Rhode Island, supporting his advancement.
Greer, who served as chief of staff to former USTR Robert Lighthizer under the Trump administration, played a key role in implementing tariffs on China and renegotiating the North American trade agreement (formerly NAFTA). His experience as a lawyer and veteran of the Air Force Judge Advocate General’s Corps, including a deployment to Iraq, further strengthens his credentials.
Greer's confirmation hearing coincided with announcements of potential new tariffs on Mexico, China, and Canada under the Trump administration. If confirmed by the full Senate, Greer will be tasked with shaping U.S. international trade agreements in alignment with Trump's economic vision. This includes strengthening domestic manufacturing, enhancing supply chain resilience, and reducing reliance on foreign suppliers.
During his hearing, Greer emphasized the importance of a strong domestic manufacturing base and innovative economy for national security. He argued for a "relatively short window of time" to restructure the international trade system to better serve U.S. interests. He also expressed his intention to pursue more balanced trade relationships with countries like Vietnam, aiming for greater reciprocity.
The White House, under then-President Trump, had proposed tariffs on imports from Mexico and Canada due to concerns about fentanyl trafficking, as well as tariffs on Canadian energy and all Chinese imports. While tariffs on China were implemented, those targeting Mexico and Canada were temporarily postponed pending border security discussions.
