Reps. Chu and Bonamici Praise Reports of Nomination of Katherine Tai for US Trade Representative

Press Release

Following reports that Katherine Tai, Chief Trade Counsel for the House Ways and Means Committee, has been nominated by President-elect Joe Biden to serve as United States Trade Representative, Reps. Judy Chu (CA-27), a member of the House Ways and Means Committee and Chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC), and Rep. Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), a member of the USMCA Working Group, issued the following statements praising the nomination:

"Katherine Tai is immensely qualified to be our next trade ambassador," said Rep. Bonamici. "Her diplomatic skills and subject matter expertise have earned her the respect of Congress, labor and environmental leaders, and the trade community at large. President-elect Biden will be well served by her representing the American people in global negotiations as U.S. Trade Representative."

"While still not confirmed, I'm thrilled to hear reports that Katherine Tai will be nominated to be our next US Trade Representative," said Rep. Chu. "From our work together on Ways and Means, I have seen firsthand Ms. Tai's skill and experience with trade deals and have been impressed by her work on the United States-Mexico-Canada (USMCA) Agreement, as well as her vast knowledge of the current and coming trade challenges. Through her work as Chief Counsel for China Trade Enforcement at USTR, Ms. Tai has also demonstrated her commitment to enforcing trade deals that work for the United States. That's why Rep. Suzanne Bonamici and I led a letter to President-Elect Biden with 10 women members urging the nomination of Katherine Tai.

"Additionally, if the reports are true that Ms. Tai will be nominated to be the US Trade Representative, then this would also be an historic announcement," continued Rep. Chu. "Katherine would be the first Asian American and the first woman of color to serve in this role, breaking barriers and clearing the way for others to follow. She would also be one of the highest ranking Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) officials in our government. For over two decades, there has always been AAPI representation in the Cabinet, and I am glad to see that continuing. President-elect Biden has promised to build a government that inspires young people, prioritizes expertise, and reflects the diversity of our nation. Katherine Tai accomplishes all of that and I hope to see her confirmed quickly."

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