Howard Lutnick’s confirmation hearing for Commerce Secretary was overshadowed by frustration over President Trump’s federal aid freeze. Democratic senators pressed him on whether he would follow unconstitutional orders, while Republicans defended his nomination. Despite the heated exchanges, Lutnick appears poised for confirmation.

Lutnick Faces Intense Scrutiny Over Trump’s Funding Freeze
Howard Lutnick, President Trump’s nominee for Commerce Secretary, faced tough questioning during his Senate confirmation hearing. The discussion was dominated by concerns over Trump’s recent freeze on federal aid, with Democratic senators pressing Lutnick on whether he would obey orders that defy the law.
Democrats Challenge Lutnick’s Allegiance to the Law
Senators Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), and Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.) grilled Lutnick on his stance regarding Trump’s funding freeze. They asked whether he believed the move was legal and if he would stop infrastructure funding if ordered. Lutnick largely deflected, stating that he trusted Trump’s legal advisers and did not believe the president would ask him to do anything unconstitutional.
Republicans Defend Lutnick Against Democratic Attacks
Committee Chair Ted Cruz (R-Texas) pushed back against Democratic criticism, arguing that no Biden nominee had been asked if they would defy the president’s orders. Other Republican senators focused on Lutnick’s plans for advancing American science and technology, with Sen. Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii) sarcastically calling the hearing a “lovefest” between Lutnick and GOP senators.
Tariffs and Business Interests Under Scrutiny
Democrats also questioned Lutnick on the Trump administration’s planned tariffs, arguing they could increase consumer prices. Lutnick dismissed concerns that tariffs would cause inflation, pointing to India and China as examples of tariff-heavy economies without inflation. Additionally, senators raised concerns over Lutnick’s business ties and potential conflicts of interest, but he pledged to divest from his core business holdings.
Lutnick Likely to Secure Confirmation
Despite the sharp partisan debate, Lutnick appears on track for confirmation. His close ties to Trump and his commitment to following the administration’s economic agenda make him a key player in shaping U.S. trade and commerce policy.
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