Vice President Mike Pence administered the oath of office to Robert Lighthizer yesterday, installing him as the new United States Trade Representative. Lighthizer was confirmed by the US Senate last week.

“Robert Lighthizer is uniquely qualified for this vital role because he’s frankly one of the leading experts on trade in all of America,” said Pence. “For the past 30 years, Robert has represented the American businesses that are the beating heart of our economy as a trade litigator. From manufacturing to agriculture, high-tech to financial services, Robert Lighthizer has distinguished himself as a tireless defender of America’s workers and America’s future, and now he’ll be doing it for the United States of America.”

“I am grateful to have been asked by the president to serve him on this very important issue of international trade,” said Lighthizer. “I further believe that when my grandchildren, who are here today, talk to their grandchildren, they will say that President Trump permanently reversed the dangerous trajectory of American trade, put America first, made our farmers, ranchers, and workers richer, and the country safer.”