Senate Commerce Committee questions Howard Lutnick on spectrum, chips, broadband, AI, crypto and conflicts as he seeks confirmation

Howard Lutnick appeared before the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation for a confirmation hearing to be secretary of commerce, telling the panel he would divest his business interests and work to deliver several administration and congressional priorities.

The hearing, chaired by Sen. Ted Cruz, focused on a broad portfolio Lutnick would lead if confirmed: managing spectrum policy through the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), executing CHIPS & Science Act grants and tech-hub programs, speeding BEAD (Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment) grant implementation, overseeing export controls through the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), developing U.S.-led artificial intelligence standards, and addressing cryptocurrency and stablecoin risks.

Why it matters: The Commerce Department oversees NOAA and NIST, large grant programs and regulatory tools that touch manufacturing, trade, telecommunications, fisheries and coastal economies. Senators on both sides framed the nominee’s role as central to industrial policy, national security and delivery of multi‑billion‑dollar programs that Congress funded.

Lutnick's background and ethics pledge

Howard Lutnick, the nominee and long‑time Cantor Fitzgerald executive, recounted rebuilding his firm after the 9/11 attacks and described his decision to serve in government. He told the committee, “I will divest, meaning I will sell all of my interests, all of my business interests, all of my assets, everything… and I will be divesting within 90 days, upon my confirmation.” He added he has signed an agreement with the Office of Government Ethics and will consult department ethics staff.

Vice President J.D. Vance introduced Lutnick and called him “a force of nature,” and senators from…