Robert E. Lighthizer (Trade Representative)

Robert E. Lighthizer served as the United States Trade Representative from 2017 to 2021. In this role, he was responsible for negotiating and enforcing trade agreements and policies on behalf of the U.S. government. Lighthizer focused on addressing trade imbalances, especially with countries like China, and sought to protect American jobs and industries. He played a key role in renegotiating the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) through the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). His work emphasized a more transactional approach to trade, prioritizing American economic interests and national sovereignty in international trade relations.