
Who is Howard Lutnick, the US Commerce Secretary?
Howard Lutnick has been appointed as new US Commerce Secretary by US President Donald Trump. Lutnick, a strong advocate of tariffs, will play a central role in President Donald Trump’s trade strategy, working closely with the US Trade Representative’s office. His appointment aligns with the administration’s ongoing tariff policies targeting China, Canada, and Mexico. While some duties have been temporarily paused for negotiations, steel and aluminum tariffs are set to take effect on March 12.
A prominent Wall Street figure
A prominent Wall Street figure, Howard Lutnick was the former CEO of Cantor Fitzgerald. He has a vast financial portfolio of over 800 businesses and earnings exceeding $350 million in the past two years. Notably, he has stakes in Greenland’s mining industry through Cantor Fitzgerald’s ties to Critical Metals—a region of interest for Trump, who previously suggested purchasing Greenland.
A 9/11 survivor
Lutnick gained national recognition after the September 11 attacks, in which Cantor Fitzgerald lost 658 employees, including his brother. He led the firm’s recovery and remains a board member of the National September 11 Memorial & Museum. Trump acknowledged Lutnick’s resilience, calling him “the embodiment of perseverance in the face of tragedy.”
Stance on Tariffs
During his confirmation hearing, Lutnick defended tariffs as tools for “reciprocity, fairness, and respect” and dismissed concerns about their inflationary impact. He also vowed to restrict sensitive technology exports to adversaries
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