Tilman Fertitta Prepares for Diplomacy, Resigns Key Roles Ahead of Ambassadorship
The billionaire businessman has committed to stepping down from leadership positions while retaining passive ownership of the Houston Rockets as his Senate confirmation awaits scheduling.
- Tilman Fertitta, nominated as U.S. Ambassador to Italy and San Marino by President Donald Trump, awaits a Senate confirmation hearing with no date set.
- Fertitta has formally committed to resigning as CEO of Landry's, Inc. and chair of the University of Houston System Board of Regents if confirmed.
- Ethics filings reveal Fertitta's financial holdings of at least $279 million and liabilities exceeding $540 million, alongside his decision to forfeit severance payments from Fertitta Entertainment, LLC.
- He will retain passive ownership of the Houston Rockets but will recuse himself from any matters involving the NBA to avoid conflicts of interest.
- Fertitta's longstanding ties to Trump, including a prior business relationship, and his role as a major Republican donor underscore the political dynamics of his nomination.
Houston Public Media 