Senator Lankford Meets with US Trade Representative Nominee Robert Lighthizer

WASHINGTON, DC – Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today met with Robert Lighthizer, President Donald Trump’s nominee to be the US Trade Representative. 

“Trade is an essential part of the Oklahoma and American economy. We must continue to expand exports and market access for our nation’s agricultural industry,” said Lankford. “We must also leverage our economy in trade negotiations to export our values and promote human rights with potential trading partners. I believe that Mr. Lighthizer is committed to ensuring US trade policy does not overlook the vital role that Oklahoma production plays at the global level. In the days ahead, I hope the Trump Administration will aggressively pursue bilateral trade agreements that benefit our state and the nation’s future.”

One in nine Oklahoma exports is an agricultural commodity, including: wheat, beef, pork, and cotton. The total value of all agricultural exports from the state is valued at nearly two billion dollars.

Lankford introduced one of just two amendments adopted to the Trade Promotion Authority bill in 2015, which is now law. 

The amendment requires US trade negotiators to consider potential trading partners’ religious freedom conditions during negotiations. 

In 1983, Lighthizer served as deputy trade representative in President Reagan’s administration.  

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