The U.S. Department of Commerce’s General Counsel, Pierre Gentin, has resigned from his position and is returning to New York. Gentin, who joined the department in February 2025, previously held roles as a partner at McKinsey & Co. and the law firm Cahill Gordon. His departure marks a significant change in the department’s leadership.
During his tenure, Gentin was part of a cohort of private-sector executives who transitioned into public service under the Trump administration. This group included figures like Michael Grimes, a longtime investment banker for Elon Musk, who also returned to the private sector earlier this year. ([semafor.com](https://www.semafor.com/article/04/23/2026/commerce-departments-top-lawyer-departs?utm_source=openai))
The Commerce Department has seen an expansion of its responsibilities in recent years. Under Secretary Howard Lutnick, the department has managed CHIPS Act funding and overseen government stakes in companies such as Intel and US Steel. Additionally, it has been involved in orchestrating the rescue of Spirit Airlines, reflecting the administration’s approach to influencing private sector operations. ([semafor.com](https://www.semafor.com/article/04/23/2026/commerce-departments-top-lawyer-departs?utm_source=openai))
Gentin’s departure comes amid scrutiny of Secretary Lutnick’s ties to Jeffrey Epstein. Recent disclosures have led to bipartisan calls for Lutnick’s resignation, with critics citing concerns over his judgment and ethics. ([bostonglobe.com](https://www.bostonglobe.com/2026/02/10/nation/commerce-secretary-faces-resignation-calls/?utm_source=openai))
As the department navigates these leadership changes, the appointment of a new General Counsel will be closely watched, given the department’s expanded role in economic and industrial policy.