The Financial Times reported on Friday that President-elect Donald Trump administration has requested Robert Lighthizer, a staunch advocate for tariffs, to resume his role as U.S. Trade Representative.
The report cited multiple individuals who are acquainted with the transition team’s discussions.
Lighthizer to Work With Trump Again
During Trump’s inaugural tenure, Lighthizer was a prominent figure in the renegotiation of NAFTA with Mexico and Canada, as well as in the trade war with China.
It is unclear whether he has accepted the offer; however, this should not be a surprise, given his close relationship with Trump and that he did not experience any conflicts with him.
Although Lighthizer and Trump are both inclined to increase leverage on trading partners, the market may interpret this as a sign of “business as usual” for a second Trump term.
Trump Appointments and Tariffs Plan
The Trump transition team did not promptly respond to a request for comment. On Thursday, Trump disclosed that he had selected Susie Wiles, one of his two campaign managers, to serve as the White House chief of staff.
Trump plans to impose 10% tariffs on all imported products and even higher tariffs on imports from China and other countries, intensifying the aggressive trade agenda he established during his first term.
Implementing these tariffs would lead to an increase in consumer prices.
