The U.S. Senate has confirmed William Kimmitt as Under Secretary of Commerce for International Trade, a pivotal role within the Department of Commerce’s International Trade Administration (ITA). The confirmation vote, held on July 29, 2025, concluded with a 51-47 tally along party lines, with two Republican senators not participating in the vote. ([insidetrade.com](https://insidetrade.com/trade/senate-approves-trump-s-pick-top-commerce-trade-slot?utm_source=openai))
Prior to his confirmation, Kimmitt served as a partner at Kirkland & Ellis LLP, focusing on complex commercial litigation, international trade, and government investigations. His previous experience includes a tenure as Counselor to the U.S. Trade Representative during the first Trump administration, where he was instrumental in implementing the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) and engaging with the International Trade Commission on various trade issues. ([whitehouse.gov](https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2024/07/11/president-biden-announces-nominees-3/?utm_source=openai))
The Senate Finance Committee advanced Kimmitt’s nomination on April 29, 2025, with a narrow 14-13 vote. Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) emphasized Kimmitt’s anticipated role in promoting market access and addressing unfair trade practices, stating that he would ensure the ITA serves as a champion for American workers and industries. ([finance.senate.gov](https://www.finance.senate.gov/chairmans-news/finance-committee-advances-commerce-treasury-nominations?utm_source=openai))
Conversely, Ranking Member Ron Wyden (D-Oregon) opposed the nomination, expressing concerns over the administration’s trade policies. Wyden criticized the ongoing trade tensions and their impact on the economy, suggesting that Kimmitt’s confirmation would further entrench policies detrimental to American workers and businesses. ([finance.senate.gov](https://www.finance.senate.gov/chairmans-news/wyden-opposes-tax-and-trade-nominees-blasts-trumps-disastrous-economic-agenda?utm_source=openai))
As Under Secretary, Kimmitt will oversee the ITA’s efforts to promote U.S. exports, enforce trade laws, and attract foreign investment. His extensive background in international trade law and policy positions him to navigate the complexities of global trade dynamics and advocate for American economic interests on the international stage.