Trump’s Commerce and SBA Nominees Advance to Senate Floor

Howard Lutnick and Kelly Loeffler, both controversial picks, move closer to confirmation as Republicans push Trump's economic agenda.

Howard Lutnick, Trump's nominee for Commerce Secretary, has advanced to the full Senate for confirmation after a 16-12 committee vote.
Lutnick is expected to play a central role in implementing Trump's trade agenda, including across-the-board tariffs and new crypto policies.
Democrats expressed concerns over Lutnick’s tariff plans, funding commitments for the CHIPS Act, and his ties to the cryptocurrency Tether.
Kelly Loeffler, nominated to lead the Small Business Administration, also progresses despite past controversies, including stock trades and remarks on Black Lives Matter.
Lutnick and Loeffler’s nominations are seen as key to advancing Trump's economic and trade policies, with final Senate votes anticipated soon.