[Senate Hearing 117-702]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
S. Hrg. 117-702
NOMINATION OF HON. GINA M. RAIMONDO,
NOMINEE TO BE SECRETARY,
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE
=======================================================================
HEARING
before the
COMMITTEE ON COMMERCE,
SCIENCE, AND TRANSPORTATION
UNITED STATES SENATE
ONE HUNDRED SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS
FIRST SESSION
__________
JANUARY 26, 2021
__________
Printed for the use of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and
Transportation
[GRAPHIC(S) NOT AVAILABLE IN TIFF FORMAT]
Available online: http://www.govinfo.gov
______
U.S. GOVERNMENT PUBLISHING OFFICE
53-058 PDF WASHINGTON : 2023
SENATE COMMITTEE ON COMMERCE, SCIENCE, AND TRANSPORTATION
ONE HUNDRED SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS
FIRST SESSION
MARIA CANTWELL, Washington, Chair
AMY KLOBUCHAR, Minnesota ROGER WICKER, Mississippi, Ranking
RICHARD BLUMENTHAL, Connecticut JOHN THUNE, South Dakota
BRIAN SCHATZ, Hawaii ROY BLUNT, Missouri
EDWARD MARKEY, Massachusetts TED CRUZ, Texas
GARY PETERS, Michigan DEB FISCHER, Nebraska
TAMMY BALDWIN, Wisconsin JERRY MORAN, Kansas
TAMMY DUCKWORTH, Illinois DAN SULLIVAN, Alaska
JON TESTER, Montana MARSHA BLACKBURN, Tennessee
KYRSTEN SINEMA, Arizona TODD YOUNG, Indiana
JACKY ROSEN, Nevada MIKE LEE, Utah
BEN RAY LUJAN, New Mexico RON JOHNSON, Wisconsin
JOHN HICKENLOOPER, Colorado SHELLEY MOORE CAPITO, West
RAPHAEL WARNOCK, Georgia Virginia
RICK SCOTT, Florida
CYNTHIA LUMMIS, Wyoming
David Strickland, Staff Director
Melissa Porter, Deputy Staff Director
George Greenwell, Policy Coordinator and Security Manager
John Keast, Republican Staff Director
Crystal Tully, Republican Deputy Staff Director
Steven Wall, General Counsel
C O N T E N T S
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Page
Hearing held on January 26, 2021................................. 1
Statement of Senator Wicker...................................... 1
Article dated January 25, 2021 in The Wall Street Journal by
Robert St. John entitled, ``Closing Time for Bars and
Restaurants''.............................................. 23
Statement of Senator Cantwell.................................... 2
Statement of Senator Thune....................................... 26
Statement of Senator Klobuchar................................... 28
Statement of Senator Blunt....................................... 30
Statement of Senator Blumenthal.................................. 31
Statement of Senator Fischer..................................... 32
Statement of Senator Schatz...................................... 34
Statement of Senator Cruz........................................ 35
Statement of Senator Markey...................................... 37
Statement of Senator Moran....................................... 39
Statement of Senator Baldwin..................................... 40
Statement of Senator Sullivan.................................... 41
Statement of Senator Peters...................................... 43
Statement of Senator Blackburn................................... 45
Statement of Senator Duckworth................................... 46
Statement of Senator Capito...................................... 48
Statement of Senator Tester...................................... 49
Statement of Senator Johnson..................................... 51
Article dated January 25, 2021 in The Wall Street Journal by
Andy Kessler entitled, ``Online Speech Wars Are Here to
Stay''..................................................... 53
Statement of Senator Sinema...................................... 55
Statement of Senator Scott....................................... 56
Statement of Senator Rosen....................................... 58
Statement of Senator Young....................................... 60
Witnesses
Hon. Jack Reed, U.S. Senator from Rhode Island................... 4
Hon. Sheldon Whitehouse, U.S. Senator from Rhode Island.......... 6
Hon. Gina M. Raimondo, Nominee to be Secretary, U.S. Department
of Commerce.................................................... 7
Prepared statement........................................... 8
Biographical information..................................... 9
Appendix
Letter dated January 21, 2021 to Hon. Maria Cantwell and Hon.
Roger Wicker from Timothy J. DelGiudice, Chairman, SENEDIA
Board of Directors............................................. 62
Letter dated January 22, 2021 to Hon. Roger Wicker and Hon. Maria
Cantwell from Tim Walz, Governor, State of Minnesota........... 63
Letter dated January 25, 2021 to Hon. Maria Cantwell and Hon.
Roger Wicker from David M. Chenevert, Executive Director, Rhode
Island Manufacturers Association............................... 65
Letter dated January 25, 2021 to Hon. Roger Wicker and Hon. Maria
Cantwell from Charles D. Baker, Governor, Commonwealth of
Massachusetts.................................................. 66
Letter dated January 25, 2021 to Hon. Roger Wicker and Hon. Maria
Cantwell from Roger J. Dow, President and CEO, U.S. Travel
Association.................................................... 68
Letter dated January 25, 2021 to Hon. Maria Cantwell and Hon.
Roger Wicker from the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable (ORR)...... 70
Letter dated January 26, 2021 to Hon. Maria Cantwell and Hon.
Roger Wicker from Dennis Slater, President, Association of
Equipment Manufacturers........................................ 72
Response to written questions submitted to Hon. Gina M. Raimondo
by:
Hon. Maria Cantwell.......................................... 73
Hon. Amy Klobuchar........................................... 74
Hon. Richard Blumenthal...................................... 75
Hon. Edward Markey........................................... 75
Hon. Gary Peters............................................. 76
Hon. Tammy Baldwin........................................... 77
Hon. Tammy Duckworth......................................... 78
Hon. Kyrsten Sinema.......................................... 79
Hon. Jacky Rosen............................................. 81
Hon. Roger Wicker............................................ 81
Hon. John Thune.............................................. 84
Hon. Roy Blunt............................................... 85
Hon. Ted Cruz................................................ 88
Hon. Dan Sullivan............................................ 96
Hon. Marsha Blackburn........................................ 99
Hon. Mike Lee................................................ 100
Hon. Ron Johnson............................................. 102
Hon. Todd Young.............................................. 102
Hon. Rick Scott.............................................. 104
NOMINATION OF HON. GINA M. RAIMONDO,
NOMINEE TO BE SECRETARY,
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE
----------
TUESDAY, JANUARY 26, 2021
U.S. Senate,
Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation,
Washington, DC.
The Committee met, pursuant to notice, at 10 a.m., in room
SR-253, Russell Senate Office Building, Hon. Roger Wicker,
Chairman of the Committee, presiding.
Present: Senators Wicker [presiding], Thune, Blunt, Cruz,
Fischer, Moran, Sullivan, Blackburn, Capito, Johnson, Young,
Scott, Cantwell, Klobuchar, Blumenthal, Schatz, Markey, Peters,
Baldwin, Duckworth, Tester, Sinema, Rosen, Reed, and
Whitehouse.
OPENING STATEMENT OF HON. ROGER WICKER,
U.S. SENATOR FROM MISSISSIPPI
The Chairman. Hearing will come to order. Thank you for
being here, in person some of us and some of us remotely.
Today, we are considering the nomination of Governor Gina
Raimondo to be the next Secretary of Commerce. I want to thank
Senator Cantwell for joining me in holding this important
confirmation hearing. And I want to take a moment to thank
former Secretary Ross for his service and for working with me
and my staff over the past 4 years.
Governor Raimondo has strong professional qualifications
which demonstrate her intelligence and dedication to public
service. As an elected official and former venture capitalist,
she will bring a valuable perspective to the Department of
Commerce regarding the economic challenges that face our Nation
as we continue our work to move out of this pandemic. I look
forward to hearing from Governor Raimondo today on her and
President Biden's goals for the Department of Commerce if she
is confirmed as Secretary, which I expect will certainly occur.
This confirmation hearing is just the starting point for
our conversation about vital policy matters, including
responding to the economic damage caused by the pandemic,
investing in our people and small businesses, ensuring that
American workers and manufacturers can compete fairly in the
global market, growing the marine economy through the promotion
of transportation, seafood, shipbuilding, and technological
innovation and research, promoting 5G deployment and increasing
rural broadband access, improving our Nation's cyber security,
and elevating space commerce at the Department. These issues
are critically important to my constituents in Mississippi and
to all Americans. I believe Governor Raimondo, as Governor of a
maritime state, understands the need for effective oceans and
fisheries policies. I hope she will be a strong advocate on
these issues as Secretary of Commerce.
I appreciate that Governor Raimondo is testifying remotely
today. Let me say to the members and our guests who are
listening that Governor Raimondo offered to come and attend
this hearing in person, but after consultation with me and
Senator Cantwell, we certainly agreed that the Governor is
needed for pressing duties back in Rhode Island as she is still
serving as Governor during trying times there.
So, I appreciate her willingness to accommodate us and I
look forward to hearing her thoughts on how we can work
together to find solutions to the challenges before us. I want
to thank Governor Raimondo for appearing before this committee
today and for her willingness to serve her country in this
prominent and essential role. Senator Cantwell.
STATEMENT OF HON. MARIA CANTWELL,
U.S. SENATOR FROM WASHINGTON
Senator Cantwell. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I apologize in
advance if I go a little long, but a lot of things to cover.
But first, I too want to congratulate Governor Raimondo on
being nominated to be Secretary of Commerce. I, too, am excited
about her nomination and the fact that she has both public and
private sector experience. I think that this will be a big help
to us and to the Biden Administration as we work on a variety
of commerce issues from trade, competition, economic stability,
growing opportunities for all Americans. Governor Raimondo's
record in the public sector, working on how to empower
entrepreneurs and skilled workers as part of the Real Jobs
Rhode Island Initiative, I think is exactly the kind of skill
set that we need to match the skills development and the
business needs to better grow our economy.
I, too, am grateful for her understanding of important
issues as it relates to both science and to fisheries. Having a
great deal of understanding of oceans, fisheries and the
investment in science I think will greatly help us at the
Department of Commerce, where the budget oversight is a very
big task of the Secretary of Commerce. And as we have, I think
more than a dozen members of this committee, including you, Mr.
Chairman, who these maritime oceans and fisheries issues are
very big issues, particularly in a changing climate, couldn't
come at a better time to have a Secretary of Commerce who
really does understand fish issues.
So, I appreciate that about her, and I appreciate that she
will lead the agency in making decisions based on science and
data that will help our economy grow in the future, everything
from these oceans' issues and fisheries to spectrum and space
issues. I hope that she will speak out today and say that she
opposes any kind of censorship of scientific information at the
Department and at NOAA, and that she fully expects to hear from
scientists on these important issues. We in the Pacific
Northwest know that we can't always agree on issues, but we
know we can agree on science. And that is why science needs to
continue to prevail. Also, we need to make sure that this issue
of spectrum and the issues related to spectrum are treated as
important as well, let me actually go for a second to the
science and fisheries issues for a second. There are a whole
host of issues where we need smart strategies, smart strategies
on salmon recovery, stormwater, and habitat investments.
We need smart strategies on our orca population that is
threatened in Puget Sound. We need smart strategies on stock
assessments and fishery management strategies. I know my
colleague from Alaska could weigh in on this issue, but smart
fishery management strategies are what will help save our
fisheries in an ever-changing economy. In 2018, commercial
fishermen caught more than 9.8 billion pounds of seafood, and
that in turn supported seafood processors, shipbuilders, trade,
and restaurant jobs, and marine anglers took more than 194
million fishing trips, which fueled our outdoor recreational
economy. So, in total, there are more than a million jobs in
the seafood sector and there are important science issues that
need to be addressed there as I mentioned. So, the other area
that I was mentioning is this issue of spectrum and weather
forecasting. And in my opinion, there is no reason why the
United States should not be a leader in weather forecasting.
This is an important issue for us, whether you are talking
about fires or you are talking about ocean issues.
So, making a better, crucial investment in the science for
maritime, aviation, space, and agriculture industries will be
very important for us moving forward. During the last 4 years,
the FCC, I believe, ran roughshod over concerns raised by
various committees within Congress on these airwave issues
critical to weather data adjacent to the 24 gigahertz band,
critical to systems dependent on GPS and threatened by the
Ligado decision. So, I am hoping that a Commerce Secretary will
take these issues and help the Administration prioritize how we
can get on the same page and also work with us on these
important issues of National Security. The Chairman worked so
hard on the issues with Huawei, and rip and replace, and making
sure that the American infrastructure was going to be secure
from the future of threats and violations. I hope the Commerce
Secretary will work with us on these security issues on our
communication system as we move forward. And the Secretary will
inherit a new program as part of the COVID bill, the Tribal
Broadband Connectivity Program.
In 2019, a report from FCC found that less than half of
households in Indian country have access to high-speed
broadband services, a 20 percent gap from non-tribal areas. And
so, I hope that we will be able to get good administration of
that program. As the Chairman mentioned, one of the key
responsibilities will be in response to the larger COVID
pandemic in the country and what we should do about it. I hope
that the Secretary of Commerce will play an important role in
strengthening our economy, in trying to defeat the pandemic and
recover from its economic impacts. I think this is a critical
job of the Commerce Secretary as we continue to see the impacts
of COVID on our economy. Again, seafood exports dropped by 31
percent since 2020 and 44 percent since February 2020. So, all
of our sectors have been impacted and Congress has appropriated
$600 million in fisheries assistance for state and tribal
needs, but so far, the fishermen in our state have yet to
receive one dollar from this program.
So, I hope that we can get her assistance in implementing
and moving forward on this, as well as working with us on other
aspects of COVID relief package moving forward, particularly in
the area of manufacturing. I know my colleague from Kansas,
Senator Moran and I are very interested in how we continue to
keep an aerospace manufacturing sector going at a time when we
have seen a decrease in demand. And the COVID pandemic will
also help us deal with minority-owned businesses who were
greatly impacted by the pandemic and have received less help
and support. So, the Office of Minority Business Development, I
believe, is an agency that can help focus us on these issues.
And the Department of Commerce, I think, continues to have a
leadership role in our competitiveness as a nation.
I hope that we will continue to look at this issue of
competitiveness. In my state, one in four jobs are related to
trade, and I hope that the Secretary and the Administration
will make a goal for export advancement. Increasing exports is
a great way to grow our economy. The last Democratic
Administration had a goal of increasing exports 50 percent over
a 5-year window and came pretty close to making that. I hope
that we will continue to move our trade export agenda and that
the Secretary of Commerce will help on that. And then last, the
census. We don't need a politicization of the census. We need
accurate data and information. For every 100-household missed
in the 2020 census, the state could lose up to $5.8 million.
So, we need to get this right because children and veterans and
seniors and families are dependent on how this formula works,
and I hope that we will have a less political process, but one
that gives us an accurate census moving forward.
So, Governor Raimondo, that is a big agenda to cover for
Secretary of Commerce. But as I said, very confident that your
public and private sector experience will help us deal with
these issues and your great depth of knowledge, both about the
competitiveness that America needs, both from the perspective
of the outside in the private sector as well as Governor, will
help us steer through this current pandemic challenge and on to
better economic times. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
The Chairman. Thank you, Senator Cantwell, for that very
fine opening statement. And now we turn to our nominee,
Governor Raimondo. Your prepared statement will be included in
the record as submitted, and we ask you to summarize any
comments you might have in 5 minutes. You are recognized.
Senator Reed. Chairman, when are the introductions from her
home state going to come?
The Chairman. Oh, OK. Well, we just received a flash notice
that there will be introductions from Senators from Rhode
Island. Did I hear the voice of Senator Jack Reed.
STATEMENT OF HON. JACK REED,
U.S. SENATOR FROM RHODE ISLAND
Senator Reed. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
The Chairman. Yes, you are recognized, sir.
Senator Reed. Thank you, Chairman Wicker and thank you
Ranking Member Cantwell. I have had the privilege of knowing
the Governor for several years, in fact, since 1971. I was a
new Second Lieutenant, just graduated from West Point. I drove
to my family's modest summer cottage in Narragansett, Rhode
Island, to check in with my folks before I hit the beach. We
lived next door to the Piero family, wonderful neighbors. Mr.
Piero was a cook in a business club in Providence, Rhode
Island. And just before I left, my mother said, go next door,
Josephine just had a new baby. Josephine was the Piero's
daughter. I weighed the joys of the beach versus the command of
my mother, and I quickly went next door. I saw Josephine
holding an almost 2-month-old little girl. I said, ``she is
cute. What is her name?'' Gina said Josephine Raimondo. Our
families summered together year after year, so I saw and heard
of the Governor's remarkable progress.
She attended my high school La Salle Academy, where she
excelled. By the way, that is also Senator Toomey's high
school. She was accepted into Harvard College, where she again
excelled. Upon graduation, she was awarded one of those
prestigious scholarships in the world, a Rhodes scholarship.
After graduating from Oxford, she had her law degree at Yale
University. After clerkship in the Federal district court, she
turned her formidable talents to business. In her finance and
investment work, she learned about business and innovation from
small startups to large corporations to bring that wealth of
experience, practical experience to the Department of Commerce.
In 2010, she was elected the General Treasurer of the state
of Rhode Island. She took on tough issues and hammered out
practical solutions. In 2014, she was elected the first woman
to serve as the Governor of the state of Rhode Island. She was
reelected in 2018. As Governor, she has led with extraordinary
distinction. In the wake of the pandemic, she rallied the
people of Rhode Island with straight talk and quickly
established an outstanding team of physicians and medical
experts to guide the state's efforts. She has made bold changes
to the economy to improve its direction. Understanding the
centrality of education now and the increasing urgency in the
future, she created a program of free tuition at the Community
College of Rhode Island for low-income Rhode Islanders.
She realigned work skills training with the needs of
business. She joined Senator Whitehouse and me in helping to
modernize our infrastructure and completed the Nation's first
offshore wind power system. She spurred investment and job
creation in our state so that prior to the pandemic we had a
record number of jobs and our lowest unemployment rate in 30
years. Now, I would like to say all of this is the result of
meeting me at the formative age of 2 months, but I can't. What
I can say about her is she is the proud daughter of working-
class parents. They serve the Nation and their community and
left an example of hard work and helping to build opportunity
for all.
As such, Governor Raimondo knows that the true test of the
Secretary of Commerce is a flourishing main street, not simply
a bountiful Wall Street. I can say with complete confidence
after battling the COVID epidemic, after invigorating our
economy, with a firm commitment to working families like our
own, there is no better choice for the Secretary of Commerce at
this time than Governor Gina Raimondo. Thank you very much, Mr.
Chairman.
The Chairman. Thank you very much, Senator Reed. I am told
Senator Whitehouse is also lined up to make an opening
statement. Sir, are you there?
Senator Whitehouse. I am here, Chairman Wicker.
The Chairman. Senator Whitehouse is recognized.
STATEMENT OF HON. SHELDON WHITEHOUSE,
U.S. SENATOR FROM RHODE ISLAND
Senator Whitehouse. Thank you for this opportunity. Thank
you also to Chairman-to-be Cantwell. I cannot top Senator Jack
Reed in the length of my association with Governor Raimondo
back to diapers, but I can assure all of my colleagues,
Republican and Democrat alike, that you will like working with
Secretary Raimondo. She is smart, she is practical, she is
results oriented, and she likes getting stuff done. As Governor
of Rhode Island, she focused on the economy, a critical part of
the Commerce Secretary's beat. She added record numbers of
jobs. The unemployment rate fell to the lowest point in three
decades. The minimum wage rose four times. Protections for low
wage workers improved. New job training programs went into
effect, and Rhode Island became particularly a national hub for
offshore wind.
In solving the offshore wind dilemma, Governor Raimondo
broke the logjam of offshore wind siting that had prevented any
state in the United States from getting offshore wind turbines
up. Now off of Rhode Island there is steel in the water and
there are electrons on the grid. So, Governor Raimondo will be
a successful Commerce Secretary on the economy, growing our
economy nationally and creating jobs nationally, just as she
did in Rhode Island. But I am just as excited about her role as
the new Secretary of what I call oceans and commerce. We have
seen, and Chairman Wicker has been an important part as well as
Ranking Member Cantwell, enormous bipartisan progress on
oceans. There is an open lane on oceans for an energetic and
bright Secretary to move issues forward in an almost
unprecedented way. Our oceans, as many of us who come from
coastal states know, are in serious peril from an array of
threats, and NOAA has long been overlooked and underfunded.
So, having an ocean state Governor to oversee NOAA's work
is something that is very exciting. She has experience and
familiarity with the issues around storm surge, sea level rise,
ocean plastics, pirate fishing, fisheries management and many
other challenging areas. As Governor, she established task
forces on plastic waste, developed a collaborative relationship
between wind developers and fishermen that saw to the success
of our offshore wind programs, focused on coastal resiliency
and the need of our coastlines to be defended from inevitable
sea level rise and worsening storms, and she focused on our
blue economy, which in Rhode Island is an incredibly important
part not only of our financial well-being, but of our heritage
as well.
Governor Raimondo will be the Secretary for oceans and
commerce we have long needed. As important as her successes in
this area is also what Jack referred to, and that is her
grounding and her roots. She recognizes the values that matter
most to Rhode Islanders and I think to people around the
country, that if you work hard, you should never have to
struggle to feed your family. You should have access to good
health care and quality housing. You should be able to live in
a safe and clean environment, and you should be able to send
your kids to a good, reliable school. Her values will serve
Americans very, very well. And I will end where I began. I am
very confident that my colleagues will like working with
Secretary Raimondo.
The Chairman. Thank you. And I am going to put Senator Reed
and Senator Whitehouse down as firm yeses on confirmation. And
Governor Raimondo, we are delighted to have you remotely, and
you are now recognized for 5 minutes.
STATEMENT OF HON. GINA M. RAIMONDO, NOMINEE TO BE SECRETARY,
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE
Ms. Raimondo. Thank you, Mr. Chairman, and thank you
Ranking Member Cantwell. Special thank you to Senators Reed and
Whitehouse for your friendship, support, and such kind opening
remarks. Thank you to both of you. It is an honor to come
before this committee today as President Biden's nominee for
United States Secretary of Commerce. Over the past few weeks, I
have enjoyed talking with many of the members. I want to thank
you this morning for your time and tell you how much I
appreciated hearing your insights and perspectives on the
important work of the Commerce Department.
Commerce Department has a simple but vital mission, to spur
good paying jobs, empower entrepreneurs to innovate and grow,
and help American workers and businesses compete. These are the
same priorities that have guided my own life and my own career.
Like most of you, like many of you, I was raised to appreciate
the value of hard work and good family-supporting jobs. When I
was growing up here in Rhode Island, Rhode Island was a
national epicenter of jewelry manufacturing, and those
factories supported thousands of families all across my state.
My dad always used to say there was something special about a
job in manufacturing, the dignity of a job when you spent your
day making things.
But by the 1980s, the factories started closing, jobs were
shipped overseas, and thousands of working-class Rhode
Islanders found themselves suddenly out of work. My father was
one of those Rhode Islanders after a long career at the Bulova
watch factory, he was forced into early retirement in his 50s
and it was a rough time for my family. And so, I know the pain
that losing a job can cause a family, and as Governor I have
seen that pain in communities all across Rhode Island where
people have lost their jobs to offshoring or outsourcing and
more recently in the pandemic. At its heart, the Commerce
Department is about opportunity, the opportunity to start or
grow a business, the opportunity to get a good stable job, the
opportunity to pursue the American dream regardless of where
you live. I have been blessed in my life to have an opportunity
to get a great education that put me on a path to success. I
started a venture capital firm to help entrepreneurs start and
grow their own businesses.
I served as State Treasurer to shore up Rhode Island's
finances. And for the past 6 years, it has been my great honor
to serve the people of Rhode Island as their Governor. When I
started my campaign for Governor, as Senator Reed said, Rhode
Island had the highest unemployment rate in the country for
eight straight months in a row. And so, we had to get to work
to get Rhode Islanders back to work. By the time the pandemic
hit, we had the lowest unemployment rate in over 30 years and
the most jobs ever in our state's history. We did it by
investing in people through workforce training programs,
bringing dozens of new businesses to the state, and empowering
small business owners. We launched the Real Jobs Rhode Island
Training Initiative, which is partnered with 1,800 companies
and provided skills to 11,000 Rhode Islanders. And we created
the state's first small business loan program, which has
empowered hundreds of Rhode Island entrepreneurs so far, more
than half of whom are women or people of color.
In this time of overlapping crisis, the Commerce Department
must be a partner to businesses and workers to help them
innovate and grow. First, we need to immediately address the
economic damage caused by the pandemic. COVID has touched every
community: urban, rural, suburban, tribal and exacerbated the
longstanding inequities facing low-income families. Second, we
need to ensure that American workers and manufacturers can
compete fairly on the global playing field. We need to invest
in innovation and technology in a manufacturing sector and take
aggressive trade enforcement actions to combat unfair trade
practices from China and other nations that undercut American
manufacturing. And third, we need to recognize that tackling
climate change is a pressing priority but goes hand in hand
with creating good paying jobs.
None of this will be possible without the incredible,
hardworking public servants of the Department of Commerce, and
I am excited to lead that team, a team with experienced,
dedicated public servants at the Commerce Department. Some of
the brightest minds and very best scientists in America. If I
am confirmed, it will be an honor to learn from them and lead
them. Thank you for this opportunity and I look forward to your
questions.
[The prepared statement and biographical information of Ms.
Raimondo follow:]
Prepared Statement of Hon. Gina M. Raimondo, Nominee to be Secretary,
U.S. Department of Commerce
Mr. Chairman, Ranking Member Cantwell, and members of the
committee--it is an honor to come before you today as President Biden's
nominee for United States Secretary of Commerce. Over the past few
weeks, I've had the chance to speak with many of you about the critical
work of the Commerce Department; to share with you my experience and
vision; and to hear your important perspectives. I want to thank you
for your time and insight.
The Commerce Department has a simple but vital mission--to spur
good-paying jobs, empower entrepreneurs to innovate and grow, and help
American workers and businesses compete. These same priorities have
guided my life and career.
I was raised to appreciate the value of hard work and a good,
family-supporting job. When I was growing up, Rhode Island was the
national epicenter of jewelry manufacturing, and those factories
sustained thousands of families in my state. There's something special
about a job in manufacturing--about making things, about having dignity
and pride in your work. But by the 80s, the factories started closing,
jobs were shipped overseas, and thousands of working-class Rhode
Islanders suddenly found themselves out-of-work. My dad was one of
those Rhode Islanders. After a long career at the Bulova watch factory,
he was forced into early retirement in his 50s, and our family had to
cut back.
I know the pain that losing a job causes a family, and I've seen
that pain in communities that have lost jobs to outsourcing and to the
pandemic.
At its heart, the Commerce Department is about opportunity. The
opportunity to start or grow a business. The opportunity to get a good,
stable job. The opportunity to pursue the American Dream, regardless of
where you live.
Thanks to my dad's hard work, I had the opportunity for a great
education that put me on a path to success. I started a venture capital
firm to help entrepreneurs start a business. I ran for state treasurer
to shore up Rhode Island's finances. And for the past six years, I have
had the honor of serving as Rhode Island's governor.
When I started my campaign for governor, Rhode Island had the
highest unemployment rate in the nation--for eight straight months. So
we got to work. And by the time the pandemic hit, we had the lowest
unemployment in over 30 years and the most jobs in state history. We
did it by investing in our people through workforce training programs,
bringing dozens of new businesses to the state, and empowering small
business owners. We launched the Real Jobs Rhode Island training
initiative, which has partnered with 1,800 companies and provided
skills to 11,000 Rhode Islanders. And our small business loan program--
the first in state history--has empowered 150 Rhode Island
entrepreneurs so far--more than half of whom are women or people of
color.
In this time of overlapping crises, the Commerce Department must be
a partner to businesses and their workers to help them innovate and
grow.
First, we need to immediately address the economic damage caused by
the pandemic. COVID has touched every community--urban, suburban,
rural, tribal--and exacerbated long-standing inequities facing low-
income families and communities of color. We need to make investments
across America and ensure every family, regardless of where they live,
has an accessible pathway to a good job. If confirmed as Commerce
Secretary, I look forward to scaling and deploying additional resources
to businesses and workers--with a focus on regions and communities that
have often been left behind--to help them bounce back and grow stronger
than ever. And to accomplish that, I look forward to listening to, and
engaging with, federal, state, local, tribal, and industry leaders.
Second, we need to ensure that American workers and manufacturers
can compete fairly on the global playing field. We need to invest in
innovation and technology in our manufacturing sector and take
aggressive trade enforcement actions to combat unfair trade practices
from China and other nations that undercut American manufacturing. If
confirmed, I look forward to deploying the full resources of the agency
to keep the American worker at the center of U.S. trade policy and to
reinvigorate American manufacturing by reshoring jobs that have gone
oversees. When given a fair chance, no one can out-compete the American
worker and small business.
And third, we need to recognize that tackling climate change goes
hand-in-hand with creating good-paying jobs. As governor, I expanded
clean energy jobs, oversaw construction of the Nation's first offshore
wind farm, and put Rhode Island on a path to 100 percent renewable
power. Like President Biden, I know the climate crisis poses an
existential threat to our economic security, and we must meet this
challenge by creating millions of good, union jobs that power a more
sustainable economy. The Commerce Department has the tools, data, and
expertise to help communities and businesses address the climate crisis
and become more resilient in the face of climate change.
None of this will be possible without the incredible, hardworking
public servants at the Department of Commerce. There are many reasons I
am excited about this chance to serve the American people. But the
opportunity to work together with the experienced, dedicated public
servants at the Commerce Department is at the top of the list. Some of
the brightest minds in the Federal government--indeed some of the best
scientists in America--are at the Commerce Department, and they deserve
leadership that's supportive, transparent, and driven toward a common
mission--building a stronger, more equitable, and more resilient
American economy. If I am confirmed, it will be an honor to lead this
team.
Thank you for this opportunity, and I'm happy to take your
questions.
______
a. biographical information
1. Name (Include any former names or nicknames used): Gina Marie
Raimondo.
2. Position to which nominated: Secretary of Commerce.
3. Date of Nomination: January 8, 2021.
4. Address (List current place of residence and office addresses):
Residence: Information not released to the public.
Office: Office of the Governor, 82 Smith St., Providence, RI
02903.
5. Date and Place of Birth: 5/17/1971, born in Providence RI.
6. Provide the name, position, and place of employment for your
spouse (if married) and the names and ages of your children (including
stepchildren and children by a previous marriage).
Spouse: Andrew Kind Moffit, Chief People Officer, PathAI, 1325
Boylston, Boston, MA.
7. List all college and graduate degrees. Provide year and school
attended.
Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, B.A. Economics, attended
1989-1993; Unpublished thesis: Misuse of American health care
facilities (1993)
New College, Oxford University, D.Phil in Sociology 2003;
M.Litt. in Economics 1996, attended 1993-1995; Unpublished
thesis: Determinants of single motherhood in the United States
(2002)
Yale Law School, New Haven, CT, J.D., attended 1995-1998
8. List all post-undergraduate employment, and highlight all
management-level jobs held and any non-managerial jobs that relate to
the position for which you are nominated.
Highlighted Experiences:
2015 to present, Governor, State of Rhode Island,
Providence, RI; lead state government and all Executive Branch
departments and agencies; during my time in office, we created
thousands of jobs, made record investments in infrastructure
and education, and became the fourth state in the country to
offer tuition-free community college for every high school
graduate
2010-2014, General Treasurer, State of Rhode Island,
Providence, RI; oversaw state's financial accounts and pension
investments, disbursements and managed state's bond issuances
2001-2010, General Partner, Point Judith Capital,
Providence, RI; investor in early-stage medical device and
healthcare services companies
October 1999-2001, Senior Vice President of Fund
Development, VillageVentures, New York, NY; established
national network of small, early-stage venture capital funds in
more than 10 cities
Other Experiences:
August 1998-August 1999, Judicial Law Clerk, Honorable Kimba
Wood, U.S. District Court, Southern District of New York, New
York, NY
June 1998-August 1998, Summer Associate, Paul, Weiss &
Rifkind, New York, NY
June 1997-August 1997, Summer Intern, U.S. Department of
Justice, Civil Rights Division, Employment Discrimination
Section; Washington, DC
June 1996-August 1996, Intern, U.S. Department of Justice,
Office of Policy Development, Washington, DC
June 1995-August 1995, Summer Associate, McKinsey & Company,
NY, NY
June 1993-August 1993, law librarian, Hinckley, Allen &
Snyder, Providence, RI
9. Attach a copy of your resume. Attached at Appendix A.
10. List any advisory, consultative, honorary, or other part-time
service or positions with Federal, State, or local governments, other
than those listed above, within the last ten years.
I have not served in any Federal or local government positions in
the last ten years. As Governor, and before that as General Treasurer,
I have served, by law, on various state government boards and
commissions. I have listed the principal ones below. I have not
included boards or commissions where I appointed a designee to serve.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Entity Position(s)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rhode Island Commerce Corporation Chair (2015 to present) (ex officio
as Governor)
Rhode Island State Investment Former Chair (2011-2015) (ex officio
Commission as General Treasurer)
Rhode Island Retirement Board Former Chair (2011-2015) (ex officio
as General Treasurer)
Rhode Island Student Loan Former Board member (2011-2015) (ex
Authority officio as General Treasurer)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
11. List all positions held as an officer, director, trustee,
partner, proprietor, agent, representative, or consultant of any
corporation, company, firm, partnership, or other business, enterprise,
educational, or other institution within the last ten years.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Entity Position(s)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Organizing Together 2020 Former Co-chair (2020)
(501(c)(4))
Rhode Island Commerce Corporation Chair of the Board (2015 to present)
(ex officio as Governor)
Truth Initiative Board of Former Member (2017-2021)
Directors
Yale Corporation Former Trustee (2014-2021) Former
Chair, Audit Committee
Democratic Governors Association Member (2015 to present) Former Chair
(2019) Former Vice Chair (2018)
Crossroads Rhode Island Board of Former Vice Chair of the Board (2010-
Directors 2014)
Family Service of Rhode Island Former Board Member
LaSalle Academy Former Board Member
Steering Committee of Cherrystone Former Member
Angel Group
Women & Infants Hospital of Rhode Former Trustee Former Chair, Quality
Island Committee
------------------------------------------------------------------------
12. Please list each membership you have had during the past ten
years or currently hold with any civic, social, charitable,
educational, political, professional, fraternal, benevolent or
religiously affiliated organization, private club, or other membership
organization. (For this question, you do not have to list your
religious affiliation or membership in a religious house of worship or
institution.). Include dates of membership and any positions you have
held with any organization. Please note whether any such club or
organization restricts membership on the basis of sex, race, color,
religion, national origin, age, or disability.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Board or Commission Position(s)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Campaign for Free College Tuition Former Advisory Council Co-Chair
(2019-2021)
Council on Foreign Relations Member (2012 to present)
Rhode Island Commodores Admiral (2015 to present) (ex
officio as Governor)
The Aspen Institute--Rodel Rodel Fellow, Class of 2011
Fellowship
Yale University Council Former Advisory Member (elected to
Yale Corporation in 2014)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
13. Have you ever been a candidate for and/or held a public office
(elected, non-elected, or appointed)? If so, indicate whether any
campaign has any outstanding debt, the amount, and whether you are
personally liable for that debt.
Governor of Rhode Island, 2015 to present; candidate for
Governor 2014, 2018
Treasurer of Rhode Island, 2011-2015; candidate for
Treasurer 2010
There are no campaigns with outstanding debts.
14. List all memberships and offices held with and services
rendered to, whether compensated or not, any political party or
election committee within the past ten years. If you have held a paid
position or served in a formal or official advisory position (whether
compensated or not) in a political campaign within the past ten years,
identify the particulars of the campaign, including the candidate, year
of the campaign, and your title and responsibilities. None.
15. Itemize all political contributions to any individual, campaign
organization, political party, political action committee, or similar
entity of $500 or more for the past ten years.
To the best of my recollection, I have not made any Federal
campaign contributions in the past ten years. To the best of my
recollection, I have made the following Rhode Island campaign donations
of $500 or more in the past ten years:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Recipient Date Amount
------------------------------------------------------------------------
RI DEMOCRATIC STATE COMMITTEE 01/24/2014 $3500
Grace Diaz 09/12/2016 $500
Nicholas Anthony Mattiello 01/17/2017 $1000
RI DEMOCRATIC STATE COMMITTEE 11/16/2017 $4000
RI DEMOCRATIC STATE COMMITTEE 11/16/2017 $1000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
In addition to these donations, in the last ten years I made a
$50,000 loan to my own campaign in 2014. The campaign repaid that loan
in full.
16. List all scholarships, fellowships, honorary degrees, honorary
society memberships, military medals, and any other special recognition
for outstanding service or achievements.
``Outstanding Mother,'' 41st Annual Outstanding Mother
Awards, Thursday, May 9, 2019, awarded to Gina Raimondo and
others. The National Mother's Day Committee, an entity of the
Father's Day/Mother's Day Council, each year confers
``Outstanding Mother'' honors to recognize exceptional women
for successfully building their careers, nurturing their
families and helping improve the lives of others.
``Italo-American Person of the Year,'' October 20, 2018,
awarded to Gina Raimondo by the Italo-American Club of Rhode
Island.
Rhodes Scholarship, 1993
Allyn Young Award for outstanding undergraduate thesis in
the Economics Department, Harvard University, 1993
17. Please list each book, article, column, Internet blog posting,
or other publication you have authored, individually or with others.
Include a link to each publication when possible. Also list any
speeches that you have given on topics relevant to the position for
which you have been nominated. Do not attach copies of these
publications unless otherwise instructed.
Publications
During my time in office, I have authored or co-authored many
articles related to my work and priorities. Below is a list of
publications which I have been able to identify from my records and
electronic searches. Links are provided where available.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Date(s) of
Title Source Publication Link
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Women are bearing the Washington Post 10/8/20 Link
brunt of the economic
crisis. They must lead
our recovery plans.
It's time to get Boston Globe 9/8/20 Link
serious about the
skills crisis in
America
My Turn: Gina Raimondo: Providence Journal 8/3/19 Link
R.I. should not gamble
with 1,100 jobs
R.I. needs to invest in The Westerly Sun 5/11/19 Link
the younger generation
with universal Pre-K
Rhode Islanders deserve The Westerly Sun 10/14/18
another 4 years of
growth
New economic tools can The Westerly Sun 11/15/17 Link
add to Quonset's
success
Cutting the cost of The Brown Daily 10/19/17 Link
college textbooks Herald
Congress Must Protect Newsweek 10/19/17 Link
the Dreamers from
Expulsion
Revitalizing The Westerly Sun 5/12/17 Link
manufacturing for 21st
century
R.I. needs line-item Providence Journal 3/18/17 Link
veto, other reforms
A Message From The Rhode Island Small 1/23/17 Link
Governor: Vibrant And Business Journal:
Prosperous Volume 6, Issue 1
Opportunities Are
Growing For Rhode
Island
R.I. Now More Providence Journal 1/1/17 Link
Prosperous And Vibrant
It's time to invest in independentri.com 11/3/16 Link
our ports; vote yes on
Question 5
RI now among big names The Westerly Sun 9/27/16 Link
in tech job sector
Rhode Island governor: Quartz 9/26/16 Link
How a small state made
a big breakthrough in
high tech job growth
Restoring faith in The Westerly Sun 5/27/16
government
Rhodeworks Finally Providence Journal 3/20/16 Link
Addresses R.I. Crisis
Treasury's 2014 Rhode Island Small 12/6/2014 Link
Accomplishments Business Journal:
Volume 3, Issue 11
Improving the Integrity Rhode Island Small 11/10/14 Link
of Our State's Business Journal:
Retirement System Volume 3, Issue 10
EverFi: Financial Rhode Island Small 10/3/14 Link
Literacy Program Business Journal:
Volume 3, Issue 9
Treasury Continuing to Rhode Island Small 9/4/14 Link
Achieve Great Results Business Journal:
for Rhode Islanders Volume 3, Issue 8
The Municipal Road and Rhode Island Small 8/11/14 Link
Bridge Revolving Fund Business Journal:
Volume 3, Issue 7
Smart Money Tour is Rhode Island Small 6/30/14 Link
Back Business Journal:
Volume 3, Issue 6
Rhode Island Steps In Rhode Island Small 4/27/14 Link
To Recover Abandoned Business Journal:
Life Insurance Volume 3, Issue 4
Property
Securing Retirement For Rhode Island Small 3/17/14 Link
RI Public Servants Business Journal:
Volume 3, Issue 3
Reflecting on the Rhode Island Small 1/26/2014 Link
Accomplishments of Business Journal:
2013 Volume 3, Issue 1
New Alternative Payday Rhode Island Small 12/23/2013 Link
Lending Site Will Help Business Journal:
Rhode Islanders Volume 2, Issue 10
Fixing Our Fundamentals Rhode Island Small 12/10/2013 Link
Benefits Us All Business Journal:
Volume 2, Issue 9
Raimondo Promotes EITC: The Federal Hill 2/26/14 Link
You've Earned It, Now Gazette
Get It
Rebuilding Our Roads Rhode Island Small 6/25/13
and Bridges Business Journal:
Volume 2, Issue 5
Protect R.I. from these Providence Journal 5/29/12
abusive lenders
Longer runway leads to Providence Journal 2/14/12
R.I. prosperity
Next Up: Reforming Providence Journal 12/21/11
Local Pension Plans
R.I. leaders move Providence Journal 9/18/11
toward pension reform
Truth in the Numbers: Office of the June 2011 Link
The Security and General Treasurer
Sustainability of
Rhode Island's
Retirement System
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Speeches
During my tenure as Governor and General Treasurer, I have
delivered remarks, both formally and informally, in countless forums on
job creation, economic growth, and other topics related to the work of
the Secretary of Commerce. To the best of my ability, I have sought to
provide a comprehensive list of speeches and addresses which I have
been able to identify from my records and electronic searches. If
additional speeches are identified, they will be provided to the
committee promptly.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Venue/Title Date
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operation Hope Annual Meeting 10/22/20
Politico State Solutions Conference 2/7/20
East Bay Chamber of Commerce 1/31/20
2020 Rhode Island State of the State Address 1/14/20
Rhode Island Offshore Wind Summit 7/18/19
Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce 4/18/19
2019 Rhode Island Promise Scholarship Expansion Testimony 4/10/19
Harvard Kennedy School 3/13/19
2019 Rhode Island State of the State Address 1/15/19
2019 Gubernatorial Inauguration Address 1/1/19
Block Island Wind Farm Announcement 5/30/18
Northern Rhode Island Chamber Eggs and Issues Breakfast 4/23/18
2018 North American Building Trades Union Speech 4/18/18
SIEPR Economic Summit 3/19/18
Jobs For Rhode Island Summit 2/21/18
Goldman Sachs Small Business Summit 2/13/18
2018 Rhode Island State of the State Address 1/16/18
Information Governance Conference 11/16/17
Sheldon Whitehouse 8th Annual Energy, Environmental and 10/20/17
Oceans Leaders Day
New York Times' 2017 Higher Education Leaders Forum 5/30/17
University of Rhode Island Commencement 5/13/17
Northern Rhode Island Chamber Eggs and Issues Breakfast 4/3/17
2017 Rhode Island Promise Scholarship Testimony 3/15/17
2017 Rhode Island State of the State Address 1/17/17
RI Small Business Economic Summit 1/8/17
2016 Rhode Island Budget Address/State of the State Address 2/2/16
Most Powerful Women Summit 10/14/15
The Inauguration of Rosanne Somerson 10/9/15
IYRS School of Technology & Trades Commencement 5/30/15
Community College of Rhode Island Commencement 5/20/15
2015 Rhode Island Budget Address 3/12/15
2015 Gubernatorial Inauguration Address 1/6/15
Transition Policy Summit 12/16/14
RI Gubernatorial Forum to Discuss Climate Change 8/25/14
Financial Empowerment Initiative 1/10/13
Smaller Business Association of New England 10/13/11
------------------------------------------------------------------------
18. List digital platforms (including social media and other
digital content sites) on which you currently or have formerly operated
an account, regardless of whether or not the account was held in your
name or an alias. Include the name of an ``alias'' or ``handle'' you
have used on each of the named platforms. Indicate whether the account
is active, deleted, or dormant. Include a link to each account if
possible.
My office or my campaigns have operated the following social media
accounts, which remain active:
Twitter: @GovRaimondo, @GinaMRaimondo
Facebook: @GinaMRaimondo, @gina.raimondo
Instagram: @GovRaimondo, @ginaraimondo
I also have a LinkedIn account, https://www.linkedin.com/in/
ginaraimondo/.
19. Please identify each instance in which you have testified
orally or in writing before Congress in a governmental or non-
governmental capacity and specify the date and subject matter of each
testimony.
I have never testified before Congress.
20. Given the current mission, major programs, and major
operational objectives of the department/agency to which you have been
nominated, what in your background or employment experience do you
believe affirmatively qualifies you for appointment to the position for
which you have been nominated, and why do you wish to serve in that
position?
The mission of the Commerce Department is to help spur good-paying
jobs; to empower entrepreneurs to innovate and grow; to come together
with working families and American businesses; to create new
opportunities for all of us. These same goals have been my priorities
as Governor of Rhode Island. When I announced my run for Governor,
Rhode Island was in the midst of an eight-month streak as the state
with the highest unemployment rate in the Nation. But over the last six
years, we grew our way back, achieving a record number of jobs and the
lowest unemployment in 30 years.
We did it by bringing together our workers and our businesses in
common cause.
We invested in our people--in their skills, their opportunities,
and their dreams. The Real Jobs Rhode Island initiative has served more
than 1,700 employers and 11,000 Rhode Islanders through job training
programs designed to meet employer needs and then doing whatever it
takes--be it building programs or clearing barriers--to teach those
skills to potential employees.
We helped new businesses launch and sparked others to hire and grow
responsibly. We have provided businesses with access to capital to help
them expand and innovate. I am particularly proud of our work with
small businesses. One of our small business loan programs has empowered
150 Rhode Island entrepreneurs so far--more than half of whom are women
or people of color--to get new businesses up and running.
We have pursued an aggressive renewable energy agenda. During my
time as Governor, Rhode Island became the first state in the Nation to
put ``steel in the water'' by establishing America's first offshore
wind facility. This has been part of my focus on expanding clean energy
jobs and putting Rhode Island on a path to achieving 100 percent
renewable energy .
The United States is facing a daunting economic challenge, but it
is one that America's workers and entrepreneurs can overcome. I share
the President-elect and Vice President-elect's vision for an inclusive
recovery that lifts up those who have been left behind, for a national
effort that provides skills, training, and wraparound supports to get
Americans back to work, and for rebuilding American manufacturing and
bringing back jobs that have gone overseas. It's why I'm so excited to
get to work on a national scale to help realize that vision and Build
Back Better.
21. What do you believe are your responsibilities, if confirmed, to
ensure that the department/agency has proper management and accounting
controls, and what experience do you have in managing a large
organization?
If confirmed as Secretary of Commerce, I will be accountable for
the operations of the department. Everyone who works in public service
must do the people's work effectively, efficiently, and with integrity.
I will set that tone from the top. I will empower personnel in the
department to lead with integrity and ensure that things are done
properly, and I will hold them accountable if they do not meet those
standards.
22. What do you believe to be the top three challenges facing the
department/agency, and why?
First, we need to respond to the economic damage caused by the
pandemic. The Department of Commerce needs to invest in our people and
our small businesses, so that we emerge from this crisis with a
stronger and more resilient economy.
Second, we need to address the structural inequity in our economy.
The harms of the pandemic have hit low income and minority communities
the hardest. The Department, in particular through the work of the
Minority Business Development Agency, must be integral to this effort.
We need to invest in these communities by ensuring that everyone has
accessible pathways to good jobs, by providing small businesses with
the resources they need to recover and thrive, and by strengthening
community, financial, and other institutions so these communities have
continued access to capital, technical assistance, and other resources
that sustain prosperity.
Third, we need to ensure that American workers and manufacturers
can compete fairly on the global playing field. We need to invest in
innovation and technology in our manufacturing sector, leveraging the
capacity at National Institute of Standards and Technology to ensure
our industries succeed. The International Trade Administration needs to
take aggressive trade enforcement actions to combat unfair trade
practices that undercut American manufacturing, and be equally
aggressive in promoting American goods abroad.
b. potential conflicts of interest
1. Describe all financial arrangements, deferred compensation
agreements, and other continuing dealings with business associates,
clients, or customers. Please include information related to retirement
accounts.
I have a 457b Retirement Account from the State of Rhode Island as
a result of my service as Governor and General Treasurer. I also have a
TIAA-CREF Retirement Account and a Retirement Defined Benefits plan
from the State of Rhode Island that accrues with each year of state
service.
2. Do you have any commitments or agreements, formal or informal,
to maintain employment, affiliation, or practice with any business,
association or other organization during your appointment? If so,
please explain. No.
3. Indicate any investments, obligations, liabilities, or other
relationships which could involve potential conflicts of interest in
the position to which you have been nominated. Explain how you will
resolve each potential conflict of interest.
In connection with the nomination process, I have consulted with
the Office of Government Ethics and the Designated Agency Ethics
Official at the Department of Commerce to identify any potential
conflict of interest. Any conflict of interest will be resolved
according to the terms of an ethics agreement that I have entered into
with the Commerce Department's Designated Agency Ethics Official and
that will be provided to this Committee. In the event that an actual or
potential conflict of interest arises during my appointment, I will
consult with the Commerce Department's ethics counsel and take the
measures necessary to resolve the conflict.
4. Describe any business relationship, dealing, or financial
transaction which you have had during the last ten years, whether for
yourself, on behalf of a client, or acting as an agent, that could in
any way constitute or result in a possible conflict of interest in the
position to which you have been nominated. Explain how you will resolve
each potential conflict of interest.
I have spent the last ten years in public office in Rhode Island,
first as General Treasurer and currently as Governor. I have not had
any business relationships, dealings, or financial transactions during
that time that could in any way constitute or result in a possible
conflict of interest, so far as I am aware.
5. Identify any other potential conflicts of interest, and explain
how you will resolve each potential conflict of interest.
I am not aware of any other potential conflicts of interest that
may arise beyond what I have explained above.
In the event that an actual or potential conflict of interest
arises during my appointment, I will consult with the Commerce
Department's ethics counsel and take the measures necessary to resolve
the conflict.
6. Describe any activity during the past ten years, including the
names of clients represented, in which you have been engaged for the
purpose of directly or indirectly influencing the passage, defeat, or
modification of any legislation or affecting the administration and
execution of law or public policy.
For the last ten years, I have held elected office in Rhode Island,
first as General Treasurer and then as Governor. During that time
period, my efforts to influence legislation, the administration or
execution of the laws, or public policy have been as part of my duties
as an elected official or in my capacity as a candidate for public
office.
c. legal matters
1. Have you ever been disciplined or cited for a breach of ethics,
professional misconduct, or retaliation by, or been the subject of a
complaint to, any court, administrative agency, the Office of Special
Counsel, professional association, disciplinary committee, or other
professional group? If yes:
a. Provide the name of agency, association, committee, or group;
b. Provide the date the citation, disciplinary action, complaint, or
personnel action was issued or initiated;
c. Describe the citation, disciplinary action, complaint, or
personnel action;
d. Provide the results of the citation, disciplinary action,
complaint, or personnel action.
I have never been disciplined or cited for a breach of ethics,
professional misconduct, or retaliation.
There have been five campaign finance or ethics complaints filed
against me or my campaigns, and one advisory opinion request that
purported to complain about my campaign. All have been rejected without
any adverse findings or adverse actions. They are as follows:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Agency Rhode Island Board of Elections
Date Complaint filed on Sept. 30, 2014 by
Republican Party
Description Complaint alleged that Democratic Party's ad
supporting U.S. Senate candidate and my
gubernatorial campaign violated state
campaign finance law.
Result Board of Elections dismissed the complaint.
rrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr
Agency Rhode Island Ethics Commission
Date Complaint filed Feb. 12, 2018 by Republican
Party
Description Complaint alleged that mutual support
agreement between gubernatorial campaign and
Providence Democratic City Committee violated
state ethics law because the chair of the
city committee was a state employee
Result Ethics Commission dismissed the complaint
rrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr
Agency Federal Election Commission
Date Complaint filed Mar. 3, 2018 by Republican
Party
Description Complaint alleged that mutual support
agreement between gubernatorial campaign and
Providence Democratic City Committee violated
Federal Election Commission regulation
governing joint fundraising activity
Result FEC dismissed the complaint after finding no
reason to believe that a violation occurred
rrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr
Agency Rhode Island Board of Elections
Date Advisory opinion request filed Mar. 12, 2018
by Republican Party
Description Request asked whether mutual support agreement
between gubernatorial campaign and Providence
Democratic City Committee violated state
campaign finance law
Result Board of Elections declined the request upon
determining the advisory opinion request did
not comply with the law
rrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr
Agency Rhode Island Board of Elections
Date Complaint filed Jul. 9, 2018 by Republican
Party
Description Complaint alleged that campaign failed to pay
fair market value in rent for its office
space
Result The complaint was dismissed
rrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr
Agency Rhode Island Ethics Commission
Date Complaint filed Jul. 24, 2019 by Republican
Party
Description Complaint alleged that participating in
negotiations to extend existing state lottery
contract and signing legislation authorizing
online sports gambling violated ethics law
because former chairman of lottery company
was Treasurer of the Democratic Governors
Association, which I chaired at the time
Result Ethics Commission dismissed the complaint
------------------------------------------------------------------------
2. Have you ever been investigated, arrested, charged, or held by
any Federal, State, or other law enforcement authority of any Federal,
State, county, or municipal entity, other than for a minor traffic
offense? If so, please explain. No.
3. Have you or any business or nonprofit of which you are or were
an officer ever been involved as a party in an administrative agency
proceeding, criminal proceeding, or civil litigation? If so, please
explain.
I have been a party to multiple civil litigations in my capacity as
Governor and as General Treasurer of Rhode Island. I am a party to
those cases by virtue of the office hold. Often I am named as a
defendant in cases involving alleged matters which did not involve me.
I have asked counsel to prepare a list of all the cases in which I have
been named as a party, to the best of their ability, which I am
providing in Appendix B. Among the more notable cases include present
litigation on the constitutionality of the state's truck tolling
program and concluded litigation on the state's pension reform, public
access to grand jury records, and the separation of powers. I have
never been a party to a lawsuit outside of lawsuits resulting from my
service as Governor or General Treasurer.
In addition, as Governor, I am by law the Chair of the Board of the
Rhode Island Commerce Corporation, a quasi-public corporation that
serves as the state's economic development agency. The Rhode Island
Commerce corporation was a plaintiff in civil litigation alleging fraud
against various private parties concerning a failed economic
development transaction that occurred before my time as Governor.
The Securities and Exchange Commission brought litigation against
the Rhode Island Commerce Corporation and others in connection with the
same translation. During my tenure as Governor, the Rhode Island
Commerce Corporation settled the civil litigation and the litigation by
the SEC.
4. Have you ever been convicted (including pleas of guilty or nolo
contendere) of any criminal violation other than a minor traffic
offense? If so, please explain. No.
5. Have you ever been accused, formally or informally, of sexual
harassment or discrimination on the basis of sex, race, religion, or
any other basis? If so, please explain. No.
6. Please advise the Committee of any additional information,
favorable or unfavorable, which you feel should be disclosed in
connection with your nomination. None.
d. relationship with committee
1. Will you ensure that your department/agency complies with
deadlines for information set by congressional committees, and that
your department/agency endeavors to timely comply with requests for
information from individual Members of Congress, including requests
from members in the minority? Yes.
2. Will you ensure that your department/agency does whatever it can
to protect congressional witnesses and whistle blowers from reprisal
for their testimony and disclosures? Yes.
3. Will you cooperate in providing the Committee with requested
witnesses, including technical experts and career employees, with
firsthand knowledge of matters of interest to the Committee? Yes.
4. Are you willing to appear and testify before any duly
constituted committee of the Congress on such occasions as you may be
reasonably requested to do so? Yes.
______
Appendix A
GINA RAIMONDO
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
GOVERNOR, STATE OF RHODE ISLAND Providence, RI
2015-present
GENERAL TREASURER, STATE OF RHODE ISLAND Providence, RI
2011-2015
POINT JUDITH CAPITAL, LLC Providence, RI
Founder, Managing Partner, 2002-2010
Founder and General Partner of $100MM venture capital firm investing in
early-stage IT and health care companies
Served as lead partner on fundraising, LP relations,
recruiting, and strategic development
Led the firm's healthcare investing, with focus on medical
device and healthcare IT companies; responsible for deal
sourcing and structuring, due diligence, and post-investment
oversight and support with business development and strategies,
and recruiting for portfolio
VILLAGE VENTURES, INC. New York, NY
Senior Vice President Fund Development/Founding Team, 1999-2002
Member of senior management team that established and supported a
network of regionally-focused venture capital funds located in emerging
geographies across the U.S.
Served as key member of team that raised $70MM+ in Series A
and B financings from private equity firms (Bain Capital,
Highland Capital, Sandler Capital); drafted PPMs, attended
pitch meetings, attended VV board meetings
Managed team of six professionals to establish national
network of 12 venture capital funds, including identification
of optimal geographies for new funds, recruitment of local
management teams for each fund, and raising of over $300MM in
LP capital across the fund network from both institutional and
individual LPs based in those geographies
Member of deal teams on several investments; led successful
M&A negotiations on company's behalf
Speaker at numerous venture capital industry forums and
events
HONORABLE KIMBA WOOD, U.S. DISTRICT COURT, S.D.N.Y. New York, NY
Law Clerk, 1998-1999
Advised Federal trial judge on drafting opinions, preparing for
conferences and managing caseload
EDUCATION
YALE LAW SCHOOL New Haven, CT
Juris Doctor, 1998
Olin Fellow. CT Bar Association Public Service Scholarship. Research
Assistant for corporate law professor Roberta Romano. Teaching
Assistant for Professor Harold Koh. Student Supervisor, Jerome N. Frank
Legal Services Clinic
OXFORD UNIVERSITY, NEW COLLEGE Oxford, England
D.Phil in Sociology, 2003; M.Litt in Economics, 1996
Rhodes Scholar. Doctoral thesis entitled: ``Determinants of Single
Motherhood in the United States.'' President, New College graduate
student body. Captain, New College Rugby Club
HARVARD UNIVERSITY Cambridge, MA
Bachelor of Arts in Economics, 1993
Magna Cum Laude. Phi Beta Kappa (junior year). Allyn Young Award for
outstanding thesis in the Economics Department. Operations Manager, The
Harvard Crimson. Research Assistant, National Bureau of Economic
Research. Radcliffe Rugby Club
______
Appendix B
List of Litigation
Prepared by counsel
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Case Case No. Court
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Clervrain v. Raimondo 1:2020cv0 0535 U.S. Dist. Ct. for
District of Rhode Island
American Trucking 20-2120 U.S. Court of Appeals for
Associations, Inc., et al the First Circuit
v. Alviti, Jr., et al
In Re: Raimondo, et al 20-2168 U.S. Court of Appeals for
the First Circuit
Armstrong v. Raimondo et 1:2020cv0 0509 U.S. Dist. Ct. for
al District of Rhode Island
A.C., et al v. Raimondo, 20-2082 U.S. Court of Appeals for
et al the First Circuit
Card v. Raimondo 1:2020cv0 0439 U.S. Dist. Ct. for
District of Rhode Island
Alvizures v. Raimondo 1:2020cv0 0336 U.S. Dist. Ct. for
District of Rhode Island
Letourneau et al v. State 1:2020cv0 0269 U.S. Dist. Ct. for
of Rhode Island et al District of Rhode Island
Efreom et al v. Raimondo 1:2020cv0 0122 U.S. Dist. Ct. for
et al District of Rhode Island
El v. Del Vecchio et al 1:2020cv0 0119 U.S. Dist. Ct. for
District of Rhode Island
Elle Sanon Auguste El v. 1:2020cv0 0055 U.S. Dist. Ct. for
DelVecchio et al District of Rhode Island
Gonzalez v. Raimondo et al 1:2019cv0 0402 U.S. Dist. Ct. for
District of Rhode Island
Romano v. Wall et al 1:2019cv0 0370 U.S. Dist. Ct. for
District of Rhode Island
Lombardi et al v. Raimondo 1:2019cv0 0364 U.S. Dist. Ct. for
District of Rhode Island
Smith v. Neronha, et al 19-1470 U.S. Court of Appeals for
the First Circuit
Shahwali v. Hughes et al 1:2019cv0 0186 U.S. Dist. Ct. for
District of Rhode Island
Liviz v. Baker, et al 19-1224 U.S. Court of Appeals for
the First Circuit
Liviz Sr. v. Baker et al 1:2019cv1 0304 U.S. District Court for
the District of
Massachusetts
Nickerson v. Providence 1:2019cv0 0030 U.S. Dist. Ct. for
Plantation et al District of Rhode Island
Smith v. Neronha et al 1:2019cv0 0029 U.S. Dist. Ct. for
District of Rhode Island
A.C. et al v. Raimondo et 1:2018cv0 0645 U.S. Dist. Ct. for
al District of Rhode Island
Rhode Island Homeless 1:2017cv0 0602 U.S. Dist. Ct. for
Advocacy Project et al v. District of Rhode Island
Raimondo
Jefferson v. Raimondo et 1:2017cv0 0439 U.S. Dist. Ct. for
al District of Rhode Island
Silvia v. Raimondo 1:2017cv0 0310 U.S. Dist. Ct. for
District of Rhode Island
Cranston Firefighters, 17-1293 U.S. Court of Appeals for
IAFF, et al v. Raimondo, the First Circuit
et al
Parkhurst v. Raimondo et 1:2017cv0 0092 U.S. Dist. Ct. for
al District of Rhode Island
Winslowet-Alps v. Mathes, 16-1951 U.S. Court of Appeals for
et al the First Circuit
Winslowet-Alps v. Mathes, 16-1838 U.S. Court of Appeals for
et al the First Circuit
Winslowet-Alps v. 1:2016cv0 0256 U.S. Dist. Ct. for
Arondrewli et al District of Rhode Island
Cranston Firefighters, 1:2016cv0 0130 U.S. Dist. Ct. for
IAFF Local 1363, AFL-CIO District of Rhode Island
et al v. Raimondo et al
Hicks v. State of Rhode 1:2015cv0 0011 U.S. Dist. Ct. for
Island et al District of Rhode Island
Kufner et al v. Suttell et 1:2013cv1 2864 U.S. Dist. Ct. for
al District of Rhode Island
Bergemann, et al v. Rhode 11-1484 U.S. Court of Appeals for
Island Department of Env, the First Circuit
et al
Bergemann, et al v. Rhode 11-1407 U.S. Court of Appeals for
Island Department of Env, the First Circuit
et al
Walker v. Raimondo 1:15-cv-00 087 U.S. Dist. Ct. for
District of Rhode Island
M. et al v. Chafee et al. 1:07-cv-00 241 U.S. Dist. Ct. for
District of Rhode Island
Monsanto v. State of Rhode 1:16-cv-00 147 U.S. Dist. Ct. for
Island et al. District of Rhode Island
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rhode Island State Court Cases
------------------------------------------------------------------------
ANDREA CABAN VS GINA 6CA-2011 -03410 6th Division District
RAIMONDO IN HER CAPACITY Court
ANNE ARMSTRONG, ALAN KC-2019-0071 Kent County Superior
GORDON, DAUGHTERS OF EVE Court
v. NICHOLAS MATTIELLO,
DOMINICK RUGGERIO, GINA
RAIMONDO
ROBERT BAINTER V STATE OF PC-2011-3 197 Providence/Bristol County
RI Superior Court
NICOLE FOX V GINA RAIMONDO PC-2011-2 633 Providence/Bristol County
Superior Court
LINDA PHILLIPS V PC-2012-2 875 Providence/Bristol County
RETIREMENT BOARD Superior Court
RI PUBLIC EMPLOYEES V PC-2012-3 166 Providence/Bristol County
LINCOLN CHAFEE Superior Court
BRISTOL WARREN V LINCOLN PC-2012-3 167 Providence/Bristol County
CHAFEE Superior Court
RI COUNCIL 94 V LINCOLN PC-2012-3 168 Providence/Bristol County
CHAFEE ET AL Superior Court
CRANSTON POLICE V LINCOLN PC-2012-3 169 Providence/Bristol County
CHAFEE Superior Court
WOONSOCKET FIRE FIGHTERS V PC-2012-3 579 Providence/Bristol County
LINCOLN CHAFEE Superior Court
ANDREA HUNT DENBY V SHARON PC-2012-4 395 Providence/Bristol County
VIENS Superior Court
ROSA ARCE V CITY OF PC-2012-4 610 Providence/Bristol County
PROVIDENCE Superior Court
JOHN GRASSO v. GINA PC-2013-3 121 Providence/Bristol County
RAIMONDO, FRANK Superior Court
KARPINSKI, BOARD
OFEMPLOYEES RETIREMENT
SYSTEM OF RI, State of
Rhode Island and
Providence Plantations
CYNTHIA TZOC V CITY OF PC-2014-4 276 Providence/Bristol County
PROVIDENCE Superior Court
CRANSTON FIREFIGHTERS V PC-2014-4 343 Providence/Bristol County
LINCOLN CHAFEE Superior Court
ANNETTE DIAZ V FLORA PC-2014-4 522 Providence/Bristol County
CURTIS Superior Court
RONALD RENAUD v. GINA PC-2016-0 910 Providence/Bristol County
RAIMONDO, Michael Superior Court
DiBiase, State of Rhode
Island
GOLOCALPROV, LLC v. Rhode PC-2016-4 810 Providence/Bristol County
Island Department of Superior Court
Public Safety, Kevin
Barry, Gina Raimondo
JASON GREENBERG v. RHODE PC-2017-4 703 Providence/Bristol County
ISLAND ARMY NATIONAL Superior Court
GUARD, CHRISTOPHER
CALLAHAN, GINA RAIMONDO
Bryan Menge v. The State PC-2018-1 211 Providence/Bristol County
of Rhode Island, Gina Superior Court
Raimondo, Paul Suttell,
Peter Kilmartin, William
Guglietta, Alan Goulart,
Ann Assumpico, Walter
Craddock, Michael Kane,
Mr. Drozdov, Mr. Cloud,
Mr. Bautista, Mr. Robles
Save The Bay, Inc. v. Gina PC-2018-2 684 Providence/Bristol County
Raimondo Superior Court
In re, 38 Studios Grand SU-2017-0 301-A Rhode Island Supreme
Jury Court
In re, 38 Studios Grand PM-2017-0701 Providence/Bristol County
Jury Superior Court
RI PUBLIC EMPLOYEES V SU-12-033 1 Rhode Island Supreme
LINCOLN CHAFEE Court
WOONSOCKET FIRE FIGHTERS V SU-12-033 2 Rhode Island Supreme
LINCOLN CHAFEE Court
RI COUNCIL 94 V LINCOLN SU-12-033 3 Rhode Island Supreme
CHAFEE Court
CRANSTON POLICE V LINCOLN SU-12-033 4 Rhode Island Supreme
CHAFEE Court
BRISTOL WARREN V LINCOLN SU-12-033 5 Rhode Island Supreme
CHAFEE Court
RI PUBLIC EMPLOYEES V GINA SU-15-006 0 Rhode Island Supreme
RAIMONDO Court
CRANSTON POLICE V GINA SU-15-006 2 Rhode Island Supreme
RAIMONDO Court
BRISTOL WARREN V GINA SU-15-006 3 Rhode Island Supreme
RAIMONDO Court
RI COUNCIL 94 V GINA SU-15-006 4 Rhode Island Supreme
RAIMONDO Court
RI COUNCIL 94 V GINA SU-15-006 5 Rhode Island Supreme
RAIMONDO Court
WOONSOCKET FIRE FIGHTERS V SU-15-006 6 Rhode Island Supreme
GINA RAIMONDO Court
JOSEPH CLIFFORD V GOVERNOR SU-15-006 9 Rhode Island Supreme
OF RHODE ISLAND Court
IBOP V GINA RAIMONDO SU-15-007 0 Rhode Island Supreme
Court
CRANSTON FIREFIGHTERS V SU-15-007 1 Rhode Island Supreme
GINA RAIMONDO Court
JOHN GRASSO V. GINA SU-16-008 3 Rhode Island Supreme
RAIMONDO Court
JONATHAN CORRENTE V. CRIME SU-16-024 7 Rhode Island Supreme
VICTIM COMPENSATION PR Court
In Re: Jonathan S. Berkon SU-2019-0 305-MP Rhode Island Supreme
Court
Steven Palange v. SU-2020-0 069-A Rhode Island Supreme
Margarita Palange et al. Court
Steven Palange v. WC-2019-0555 Washington County
Margarita Palange et al. Superior Court
RI PUBLIC EMPLOYEES V GINA SU-15-006 0 Rhode Island Supreme
RAIMONDO Court
JOSE LANZA V CITY OF PC-2011-4 487 Providence/Bristol County
PROVIDENCE Superior Court
TOWN OF SCITUATE V PC-2011-6 345 Providence/Bristol County
EMPLOYEES RETIREMENT Superior Court
SYSTEM RI
DOLORES NUGENT V STATE OF PC-2014-3 247 Providence/Bristol County
RI Superior Court
THOMAS WHEWELL V CORRIB WC-2009-0841 Washington County
REALTY LLC Superior Court
JAMES MEGA V COLLEEN PC-2014-3 640 Providence/Bristol County
HIGGINS Superior Court
RI STATE TROOPERS V STATE PC-2014-4 432 Providence/Bristol County
OF RI Superior Court
NORBERTO GOMEZ C ALL FRESH PC-2014-4 500 Providence/Bristol County
DONUTS Superior Court
CITY OF CRANSTON v. STATE PC-2020-0 7650 Providence/Bristol County
OF RHODE ISLAND et al. Superior Court
MICHAEL BRADY V GINA PC-2013-5 592 Providence/Bristol County
RAIMONDO Superior Court
DEBORAH GATTO V PROVIDENCE PC-2012-6 025 Providence/Bristol County
Superior Court
JONATHAN CORRENTE V CRIME PC-2013-4 763 Providence/Bristol County
VICTIM COMPENSATION PRO. Superior Court
LAURIE SMITH V FAMILY PC-2013-5 152 Providence/Bristol County
SERVICES OF RI Superior Court
Gina Raimondo, Rhode PC-2019-1 0341 Providence/Bristol County
Island Department of Superior Court
Business Regulation v.
Nicholas Mattiello,
Dominick Ruggerio
Town of Barrington et al., PC-2019-1 0870 Providence/Bristol County
v. State of Rhode Island Superior Court
et al.
CHARIHO REGIONAL SCHOOL V. SU-11-008 5 Rhode Island Supreme
DEBORAH GIST Court
Rhode Island Troopers PC-2019-1 1054 Providence/Bristol County
Association et al., v. Superior Court
State of Rhode Island,
Division of the State
Police et al.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Chairman. Thank you very, very much, Governor, and we
will now proceed to questions under the 5-minute rule. I am
required to ask you this question. The Committee has a history
of the Chair asking nominees to state on the record that they
pledge to work with Congress and the Committee in a cooperative
manner. So, I ask you, if confirmed, will you pledge to work
collaboratively with this committee and provide thorough and
timely responses to our requests for information as we work
together to address important policy issues? Will you?
Ms. Raimondo. Yes, absolutely.
The Chairman. Thank you, ma'am. Let's move on then to some
specific issues. And I wonder if you have had a chance to look
at the status of the United States and European Union
negotiations to establish a successor data transfer framework
that overcomes the issues that led to the invalidation of the
Privacy Shield last summer. We held a hearing on this in the
last Congress on the invalidation of this EU, U.S. Privacy
Shield framework. If confirmed, how do you plan to work with
your counterparts in Europe on this issue and other issues to
ensure that we have a data transfer framework that is workable?
And how will you continue transatlantic data transfers in
compliance with what we have now? Have you had a chance to look
into this, Governor?
Ms. Raimondo. Yes, thank you, Mr. Chairman. As you say,
cross-border data transfers are vital to the interests of many
American companies, and the Privacy Shield was particularly
important for thousands of small and medium sized businesses.
As I understand it, the negotiations are going well. And should
I be confirmed, it would be a top priority of mine to finish
the negotiations swiftly and ensure that there is a successor
agreement that protects the interests of American businesses
and provides for that transfer of data.
The Chairman. Well, thank you very much. And I just wanted
to highlight the importance of that by asking that as my first
substantive question. Let's move to seafood, trade, restaurants
and competitiveness. Americans eat approximately 70 percent of
their seafood in restaurants and other food service
establishments. Restaurant closures during the COVID-19 crisis
caused the demand for seafood to evaporate almost overnight.
As a result, fisheries across the Nation have reported up
to a 90 percent drop in sales in 2020. My Restaurants Act,
which is a bipartisan Act, would have temporarily established
and provided funding for the Restaurant Revitalization Fund.
Since Americans eat 70 percent of their seafood in restaurants,
this bill would also help see the seafood industry recover. And
at this point, I offer into the record at this point an Op-ed
in today's Wall Street Journal, ``Closing Time for Bars and
Restaurants'' by Robert St. John, a prominent restauranteur in
the state of Mississippi. And without objection, it will be
added into the record at this point.
[The information referred to follows:]
Wall Street Journal
OPINION | COMMENTARY
Closing Time for Bars and Restaurants
Few industries have been harder hit by Covid. We need relief.
By Robert St. John--Jan. 25, 2021 5:41 pm ET
Maria's Italian Kitchen in Santa Monica, Calif., prepares to close
due to Covid-19 restrictions, July 28, 2020.
PHOTO: VALERIE MACON/AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE/GETTY IMAGES
Hattiesburg, Miss.
From the first moment of my first shift on my first day in a
restaurant, I knew I wanted to own my own place. That was 40 years ago
and I've loved every challenge the restaurant business has thrown my
way--until now. I fear the work of four decades won't survive the
coming months without a plan that truly addresses my industry's needs.
In April I sat down with my wife, 22-year-old daughter and 18-year-
old son and told them we may lose some, or all, of the six restaurants
and two bars we owned. In the same conversation, I told them there was
also a strong chance we might have to sell our home.
Nearly a year into the pandemic, I have permanently closed two
restaurants and a bar--leaving 52 people to have difficult
conversations with their own families. For the first time in my career,
I have to ask for help.
The pandemic is unfair. A tiny airborne particle threatens
everything I've spent 40 years working to build. My teams have done
nothing wrong. We work hard, we're honest, we roll with the punches,
and we always do our best to serve our customers and community.
This isn't the first time restaurant owners have dealt with
adversity. The financial crisis of 2008 came and went, our sales
tanked, and no one heard a word from restaurants. After hurricanes,
tornadoes and wildfires we have rolled up our sleeves and done the work
it takes to reopen.
But this is different. We are out of options, and I fear a few more
weeks of limited revenue may jeopardize my remaining businesses.
Thousands of American independent restaurants face similar issues. The
end is coming in more of a whimper than a bang--restaurants are being
starved into extinction.
Early in the pandemic I joined other independent restaurateurs
across the country and organized the Independent Restaurant Coalition
to ensure our community had a voice in the public debate around Federal
relief. Politics is a game that is entirely new to me and most members
of the IRC, but that turned out to be an asset. We applied the same
entrepreneurial attitudes we bring to our kitchens to advocate for our
cause in Washington. We didn't take no for an answer, no problem was
too big or too small to solve, and no opportunity was left to waste.
The drinks and food-service industry has suffered about 1 in 4
Covid-related job losses. According to a National Restaurant
Association survey, more than 1 in 6 restaurants closed permanently
during the first six months of the shutdown.
I was encouraged to see President Biden highlight our industry's
unique pain in his speech outlining a new Covid relief plan. He
acknowledged the devastation felt by the entire restaurant world. It's
a good start, but now we need Congress to do something about it and
pass direct relief in the next round of stimulus.
In the 116th Congress, I worked closely with Mississippi Sen. Roger
Wicker to push the Restaurants Act. That $120 billion grant program is
what our community needs to survive this pandemic, and nothing less
will cut it for America's 500,000 independent restaurants and bars, the
11 million workers we employ, and the five million ancillary jobs, such
as farmers and fishermen, associated with our industry.
Time is nearly up for my business and many others. Restaurants
operate under a unique business model that is tight on cash and short
on profit. Ten weeks of diminished revenue can spell trouble for a
restaurant's business health. Independent restaurants across the
country have been struggling for more than 10 months on financial
fumes.
The solutions offered by Congress so far have amounted to a Band-
Aid on a bullet hole. Our first round of Paycheck Protection Program
funds are gone, and the second round will keep us afloat for only a few
weeks. Restrictions limit indoor dining, and winter weather has brought
an end to outdoor dining for much of the country. Thousands more
businesses will soon have no choice but to shut their doors forever.
It's time for Congress to make restaurants a priority and pass
direct aid. It's the only thing that will save our restaurants and
workers.
Mr. St. John is a chef and owner of the New South Restaurant Group.
Appeared in the January 26, 2021, print edition.
The Chairman. So, let me ask you, Governor, since 70
percent of Americans eat their seafood in restaurants, from the
perspective of your region, what do you expect to be the
lasting impacts of this terrible crisis on the seafood
industry? And what will it take for the seafood and the
restaurant industry to recover?
Ms. Raimondo. Thank you for that question. And I know from
our previous discussions, this is a very important topic for
you as it is for me. As Senator Whitehouse said, I am the
Governor of the ocean state. Thousands of Rhode Islanders make
their living as commercial fishermen, and both they and
restaurants have been really devastated during this pandemic.
If confirmed as Commerce Secretary, I would look forward to
working very closely with you and your colleagues to come up
with bold and creative solutions, not only to help our
fishermen, but also our restaurants and for that matter, the
entire hospitality industry, because I assess the impacts to be
quite long standing unless we take bold action.
The Chairman. These are two terribly threatened industries
that are vital to our economy. Thank you, Governor Raimondo.
Senator Cantwell, for your questions.
Senator Cantwell. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Governor, again,
congratulations on your nomination. And I think you are aware
of how broad the Department is in its oversight of science
issues. The Chairman asked you a pretty broad question at the
beginning, which was important, to do with collaboration.
Surprising how often that doesn't happen sometimes. So, it is
very good to clarify, but also want to clarify this issue as it
relates to science and data. Do you oppose any censorship of
scientific data and information coming out of the Department of
Commerce?
Ms. Raimondo. Yes, I do.
Senator Cantwell. Thank you. And will you work with us to
help restore the confidence in that science and data,
information, and investment in it for the future?
Ms. Raimondo. Yes, I will.
Senator Cantwell. Thank you. A couple of specific issues,
one that I mentioned in my opening statement and as we are
talking about seafood and the fishing economy. Salmon is
particularly important to the Pacific Northwest, and one of the
issues regarding salmon, involves broader infrastructure
investment moving forward, that is all sorts of transportation
infrastructure. We are a coastal state with a lot of
transportation infrastructure and moving products. But keeping
salmon habitat and restoration in a robust state is very
critical to keeping salmon. So, will you work with us on a more
targeted, larger scale investment in stormwater restoration and
in building critical habitat for everything from oyster reefs
to eel and seagrass and critical habitat? There is a dozen or
so members of this committee that probably have similar
problems in their states, but would you work with us to
increase the amount of investment and targeted return from that
investment?
Ms. Raimondo. Yes, I would very much look forward to
working with you and other members of the Committee. Again, as
I said, I have come to understand from my discussions with you
these past couple of weeks how important the salmon stock is
and the fishing industry in general is to your state. And I
would absolutely look forward to working with you on that
issue.
Senator Cantwell. Well, I guess I would call it salmon
infrastructure, and that is that as we grow transportation
infrastructure, which we also desperately need in the Pacific
Northwest, we grow salmon infrastructure, which is that habitat
and stormwater restoration, which practically every community
in my state would tell you that they need if they are ever
going to do a better job of protecting salmon. The same kind of
scientific and data information is also needed for our orca
whale population and preserving them. One of the things that
they have issue with right now, which NOAA has basically said
we need to do something about is noise as it relates to the
orca population, so I hope that you will work with us to
implement a process for our shipping and Coast Guard and others
to work on a mitigation plan for the orca whale population.
Ms. Raimondo. Yes, I would be excited to do that. I will
say here as Governor I have a record of investing in
stormwater, investing in resiliency, investing in adaptation,
and would certainly look forward to doing that with you and
members of the Committee.
Senator Cantwell. Thank you. And then last, stock
assessments. We believe in good fisheries management policy and
key to that is stock assessments. And so I hope you will work
with us on increasing the amount of dollars that go into the
science behind stock assessment so we can make good management
plans.
Ms. Raimondo. Yes, again, absolutely. I plan to lead with
science and lead with data. I know stock assessments are vital
and also very detailed, and I absolutely look forward to
working with you on that.
Senator Cantwell. Thank you. And on the larger issue of
science and data, as I mentioned in my opening statement, as it
relates to weather, do you think the United States should be a
world leader in weather and data forecasting information? I say
I am not necessarily trying to be competitive with another
nation, it is just the amount of times that we hear our news
broadcasters say, well, this is the forecast and then this is
the European forecast. And they are using supercomputing time
to get more out of this. This weather data is so critical for
us as it relates to, as I said, aviation, maritime, space
issues, agriculture issues. So will you work with us to make
sure the United States has the state-of-the-art technology when
it comes to weather forecasting and weather information?
Ms. Raimondo. Yes, I think, and we had the opportunity to
visit about this last week, I applaud your leadership on, I
think that America's national weather service should be the
gold standard. And should I be confirmed, I will work with you
to make sure that that is the case.
Senator Cantwell. Thank you. I see my time has expired, Mr.
Chairman. I would just say that I am going to count on the
Governor to work with us. Her workforce strategy in Rhode
Island jobs, I think, is that particularly for underserved
communities and minority business community, is something we
need to look at and how we can elevate that to a national
level. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
The Chairman. Thank you, Senator Cantwell. Senator Thune.
STATEMENT OF HON. JOHN THUNE,
U.S. SENATOR FROM SOUTH DAKOTA
Senator Thune. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Governor Raimondo,
congratulations on your nomination. And let me just start by
saying that as I am sure you are aware, in December Congress
allocated funds to NTIA to oversee a broadband grant program to
connect underserved areas. It is vitally important that we
close the digital divide in states like South Dakota and across
America. However, the effectiveness of NTIA administering such
a program is concerning given its history awarding broadband
grants provided by the 2009 stimulus.
Under the Obama, Biden Administration, GAO concluded that
NTIA had faced a number of challenges, from staffing to
adequate data on broadband availability, resulting in a largely
ineffective program at the taxpayer's expense. What steps would
you take to correct the mistakes of the past? And will you
commit to me that NTIA will set up this program in a way that
this new money only goes to areas that are completely unserved?
Ms. Raimondo. Thank you, Senator, for that question. First,
let me say that as Governor of a state and having lived through
COVID, I have seen the truly devastating effects of that lack
of broadband can have on people. It is not a luxury, it is a
necessity. It is how children can have their classes. It is how
people can do telehealth and visit a doctor. It's how you can
sign up to get a vaccine. So you can have my strong commitment
to work closely with you and other members of this committee to
make sure that NTIA has strong leadership that and that we
execute on those grants as expeditiously as possible, and with
an eye toward making sure that everyone, tribal lands, rural
folks who live in a mountain range, has access to broadband,
which is absolutely necessary.
I will also say, you know this is an area where I hope we
can have bipartisan agreement. I have heard from my Republican
Governor colleagues and Democratic Governor colleagues all over
the country saying we need help on this. And so should I have
the honor of serving as Commerce Secretary, I commit this will
be a very top priority the minute I get into the job.
Senator Thune. Thank you. Congress established a clear
division of responsibility for spectrum management. The FCC is
responsible for commercial spectrum. NTIA is responsible for
Federal Government spectrum. And there have been a number of
instances in the past when the FCC and NTIA's roles have come
into conflict. How can we ensure that the FCC and NTIA work in
partnership to address spectrum management issues that impact
both Federal and commercial entities? And do you support
freeing up additional spectrum held by the Federal Government
to support the needs of next generation wireless services?
Ms. Raimondo. Thank you for this question, and it is a
topic that I have had the opportunity to talk to a number of
members of the Committee on. Again, it gets back to having a
strong NTIA with strong leadership, particularly as it relates
to 5G. You know, the race is on for 5G and I want America to
win and lead, and that requires spectrum. So, yes, I do support
finding additional publicly-owned spectrum, and I will--I think
what we need to do, and the President has been clear, is we
need to step back and have a national strategy on spectrum and
look to make spectrum available from public and commercial uses
so that we can move forward on broadband and 5G. And I commit
to working with you on that and having leadership in the NTIA
to do that.
Senator Thune. Thank you. The livelihoods of farmers and
ranchers in my state often depend on forecasting accuracy. So
it is important that we find innovative ways to improve NOAA's
capabilities when it comes to predicting weather. In the last
Congress, Senator Schatz and I introduced a bill called the
Learning Excellence and Good Examples from New Developers or
LEGEND Act, got to have an acronym around here, which makes
NOAA's current future operational forecast models more
accessible to outside experts, including scientists and
engineers in academia who can provide new insights to improve
existing forecasting models. Do you believe it is important for
NOAA to incorporate innovative approaches to weather
forecasting from outside stakeholders?
Ms. Raimondo. Yes, I do. As I said to Senator Cantwell, the
National Weather Service should be the gold standard. And by
the way, I have a strong track record of embracing innovation
and technology throughout my public and private sector career.
So, yes, I think we ought to be forward leaning and embrace
science and technology and innovation, so we have the best
there is to offer.
Senator Thune. And would you commit to working with us to
move that Act through Congress, that legislation?
Ms. Raimondo. I will commit to working with you.
Absolutely.
Senator Thune. Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
The Chairman. Thank you, Senator Thune. Governor let me
just interject that Senator Thune has raised a very good point
with regard to NTIA and FCC. And it is going to be important
that we have a Secretary that is committed to following the
statute on the bifurcated system of managing spectrum with the
NTIA representing the spectrum needs of Federal agencies.
Senator Klobuchar.
STATEMENT OF HON. AMY KLOBUCHAR,
U.S. SENATOR FROM MINNESOTA
Senator Klobuchar. Thank you very much, Mr. Chairman.
Welcome, Governor. Thank you for being here. And I have to say
that those two introductions by your Senators, we hear a lot of
introductions, but they were incredibly heartfelt and a tribute
to you. And I would also add that my own Governor, Tim Walz, is
a big fan of yours, and that goes a long way. So your
experience with economic development, your private sector and
public sector experience I think is going to be an amazing
combination for this job. So thank you very much for being
willing to serve.
I had a question, you and I talked about this when we met,
on travel and tourism, and I noted that Senator Blunt and I,
along with several other Senators, including Schatz, Cortez
Masto, have worked on tourism, and the Brand USA bill, where
Senator Blunt and I have led for years now, is a public,
private partnership that promotes international tourism
throughout the U.S., supporting more than 51,000 jobs a year,
and I just like your commitment that you will support that and
do all that you can to continue to support the tourism
industry?
Ms. Raimondo. Yes, thank you, Senator, and thank you for
your time yesterday. I thank you for your leadership on
tourism. I know you have been a leader on this issue for a long
time. I hail from a state where tourism is a significant part
of our economy. And I have seen firsthand over these past 10
months just how crippling the COVID pandemic has been to the
businesses of--tourism-dependent businesses. So, yes, I look
forward to working with you and your colleagues, really leaning
into Brand USA and being as bold and creative as we can to
encourage people to come to our country, to apply, to stay in
hotels. Obviously, I think President Biden's leadership around
COVID is vital, and once folks are vaccinated and feel more
comfortable, absolutely. We will work together on this issue.
It is a lot of American jobs.
Senator Klobuchar. Thank you. And one thing we didn't talk
about as much, and I wish I had and I can talk to you about it
later, given your experience with venture capital investment
and the like, I think you could be such a big advocate for
this, is a bill that I have called the New Business
Preservation Act, focuses, we worked with Steve Case and other
people on this, focuses on incubating and developing Silicon
Valley type areas all over the country, that it shouldn't just
be one area that gets all this investment, as good as that is,
and that we need to spread it around and create other hubs of
investment.
And what the bill does is it authorizes states to make
equity investments in new businesses alongside venture capital
companies. They wouldn't actually be making the decisions or
funding it directly. But I hope you will be willing to look at
that and look at that as well as skills investment. I think
your experience in Rhode Island and the work you have done with
getting more people jobs would be really helpful. I think it
was Tyler Perry who once said ``your beginning shouldn't
dictate your destiny.'' And certainly after this pandemic and
through this pandemic, we are going to have a lot of work that
must be done. I know Senator Cantwell has been such a leader on
this, on skills reinvestment, as well as looking at our economy
more globally about where we can invest in areas of the country
to encourage more hubs of innovation.
Ms. Raimondo. Thank you, Senator. Yes, of course, I will
look forward to working with you and all of your colleagues. I
would say I am deeply committed to making sure that all
Americans, in every community, have an opportunity to have the
skills they need to get a good job. And it is true that most
venture capital is highly concentrated in five or six
communities around America. But those communities don't corner
the market on great ideas or entrepreneurs. And so I will very
much look forward to working with you to provide opportunity to
all Americans.
Senator Klobuchar. Thank you. Last question. With 95
percent of the world's potential customers living outside of
our borders, it is important more than ever that we ensure that
our businesses and farmers, reference to Senator Thune, we
share a border, are able to capitalize on opportunities in
these markets. And I am a strong supporter of the U.S.
Commercial Service, which, as you know, is the export division
of the Department's International Trade Administration, which
handles trade promotion, has trade professionals in over 100
U.S. cities including my own, and has a presence in more than
70 countries. And during the Obama Administration, there was a
lot of focus on this. And I think we need to do even more as we
move forward on exports. What are your plans to improve the
U.S. commercial service program, particularly for businesses
based in rural areas?
Ms. Raimondo. So first, I agree with you. Second, I know
this is an important area for you and I appreciate your
leadership. Exports equal growth, equal more jobs. So I intend
to be very aggressive, should I be confirmed, to make sure that
the Department of Commerce is accessible to all businesses,
particularly small, medium sized businesses, farmers, rurally
located businesses. They ought to have access to the tools of
the Department of Commerce to help them improve their exports.
And so I will be very focused on that.
Senator Klobuchar. Very good. And I will put on the record,
Mr. Chairman, questions about broadband as well as steel
dumping, something I discussed with the Governor yesterday.
The Chairman. Thank you, Senator Klobuchar. Senator Blunt.
STATEMENT OF HON. ROY BLUNT,
U.S. SENATOR FROM MISSOURI
Senator Blunt. Thank you, Chairman. Governor, I am sorry we
haven't had a chance to visit yet but look forward to an
opportunity to do that. Let's go right to the exports issue
that you and Senator Klobuchar just talked about. I think one
of the disadvantages we created for ourselves in the recent
years are our tariffs on a number of things but particularly
steel and aluminum. In my state, we make beer cans and bass
boats and automobiles and pickup trucks. And I think we are
disadvantaged----
Senator Cantwell. Excuse me, Senator, don't you also make
airplanes?
Senator Blunt. And airplanes, exactly. And even Boeing
airplanes, as a matter of fact.
The Chairman. Don't take that out of his time.
Senator Blunt. But all of those things and well beyond, as
Senator Cantwell just pointed out, well beyond any list I would
come up with. President Biden said he would conduct a review of
all existing tariffs. I am personally concerned about the 232
tariffs on steel and aluminum and wonder if you have any view
on that issue?
Ms. Raimondo. Yes. Thank you very much for that question. I
will say that here in Rhode Island, you know, we make
submarines and electric boat who are consumers of steel and
aluminum. And so I hear you and I appreciate your advocacy.
Having said that, China has clearly behaved in ways that are
anti-competitive, dumping cheap steel and aluminum into
America, which hurts American workers and hurts the ability of
our companies to compete. So should I be confirmed, I plan to
be very aggressive to help Americans compete against the unfair
practices of China.
I will say the President has been clear, we need to step
back, review broadly our policies, trade policies as it relates
to China, consult with our allies, and I will assure you that I
will certainly listen to you, engage stakeholders, listen to
the manufacturers in your state and take their needs into
account. I also understand there is an exclusion process, and I
will also commit to you, for consuming industries, and I will
commit to you to ensure that that exclusions process is swift,
fair, objective, and helps to balance the competing interests.
Senator Blunt. Well, I do think, and I am sure you well
understand that the dumping, the tariffs that are based on that
are clearly tariffs that we should impose, and we shouldn't
tolerate dumping, at the same time we shouldn't use National
Security as just an excuse to have a tariff. And you are not
suggesting we should. But anything you do on that front doesn't
take away the tools you have from a country like China that may
be dumping steel and aluminum. And I hope you will look at that
that way. I was going to mention Brand USA and Senator
Klobuchar and I talked--mentioned we have worked closely on
that for a long time. It's a program that is working, was
working obviously a lot better when people were traveling, but
to be sure that we are continuing to project states like
Minnesota and Missouri and Rhode Island that may not have their
own budget, that would allow them to appeal to foreign
travelers the way Brand USA has. It is working. It is a great
partnership.
I think we have gone through all of the challenges of a new
program and see that program working a little better all the
time. And you have already addressed that. Generally, the
hospitality industry, travel, tourism, hospitality has been
hurt as badly as any industry in this pandemic. And being sure
when we establish barriers, like some concern right now that
maybe everybody who travel to the United States should have had
a vaccine or have some level of testing, I hope we really move
forward looking at those issues with an understanding of how
important that is to our economy.
We clearly want to win the fight against the virus, but we
don't want to lose the fight for a reemerging economy in those
areas. If you had any thoughts on whether there should be
barriers on travel that the Commerce Department would be
involved in?
Ms. Raimondo. Yes, so thank you for the question. I would
say this is something that I have lived every day since COVID
because being Governor, you are in the position of wanting to
protect people from COVID, but also make sure that you maintain
as much of an economy as possible. President Biden has a
fantastic team leading on COVID, and I have confidence in their
ability to do that. I will simply say to you, I hear you and I
feel we need to be very bold, aggressive, and creative to be to
help the tourism and hospitality industry in light of the
situation they are in.
Senator Blunt. Thank you, Governor. Thank you, Chairman. I
may have some questions for the record, but I have used up my
time.
The Chairman. Thank you, Senator Blunt. Senator Blumenthal.
STATEMENT OF HON. RICHARD BLUMENTHAL,
U.S. SENATOR FROM CONNECTICUT
Senator Blumenthal. Thank you, Mr. Chairman, and welcome to
the Committee and thank you for your willingness to continue
your public service, Governor. I am really admiring and
grateful of your record on environmental preservation,
particularly your commitment, as you and I discussed, to the
idea of a blue New Deal. I think a phrase originated by Senator
Warren, but as the ocean State and our neighbor to Connecticut,
I know that you are committed to our oceans and to the health
of that treasure that we share. And in that connection, I was
very gratified to see that President Biden has signed an
Executive Order to reinstate the protections afforded by the
Northeast Canyons and Seamounts Marine National Monument last
week. That is a cause that I championed. President Obama signed
the Order establishing it. President Trump reversed it.
And now, fortunately, President Biden has reinstated it.
And I understand that he is contemplating and will soon sign an
Executive Order to establish a goal to conservative--to
conserve 30 percent of all United States lands, fresh waters
and oceans by 2030, which is known as 30 by 30. Thank you for
your support of that measure as well. As you know, the quotas
for fishing in our respective waters are outdated. And I would
like your commitment that you will be working with me to get
the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission and relevant
fishery managers to update the outdated quotas for fishing,
which affects the fishing industry in our respective states.
As you know, those quotas have been severely outdated for
years, and they force many of our boats to throw back fish that
are dead anyway and the quotas would, should be updated to
enable them to keep some of that produce.
Ms. Raimondo. Thank you and I know this is a vitally
important area for you, you brought up with me a few times, and
I definitely look forward to working with you on this. I will
say that I understand, you know again being the Governor of the
ocean state, 4,000 or 5,000 people make a living fishing here,
having quotas, stock assessments, accurate based on data,
science is important. And I that is--I will prioritize it. That
is how I will lead. And I look forward to a dialogue with you
on this.
Senator Blumenthal. Thank you. I know as your--in light of
your background, both in the private sector and now as
Governor, you are very well aware of the disparate impact the
pandemic has had on minority-owned businesses. In fact,
according to one report released by the Federal Reserve Bank of
New York, 41 percent of black owned businesses, 32 percent of
Latino-owned businesses have gone under. What would be the
role--what should be the role of the Minority Business
Development Agency to help vulnerable and hopefully thriving,
minority-owned businesses?
Ms. Raimondo. Yes, thank you. COVID has shined a light on
the inequities in our economy and the President has been very
clear, we are going to build back better and more equitably.
And I strongly support that. I believe NBDA can play a vital
role in that. And certainly I have a lot of experience as
Governor and place-based economic development. I am very proud
of the fact that more than half of the people who have
participated in our job training and placement effort post-
COVID are women and people of color. So you have my commitment
to lead in this area and to use the NBDA as a very important
player in the rebuild effort.
Senator Blumenthal. Thank you. Finally, let me ask you
about broadband connectivity. As you know, many parts of our
country, including Rhode Island and Connecticut, are afflicted
with the homework gap. The lack of connectivity is a severe
barrier to young people trying to stay current and that is
another problem that has been highlighted by the pandemic.
Census's ACS program is one of the most reliable source of
information about the homework gap. And I would appreciate your
commitment that you will make, as a priority, the sources of
information about the homework gap and the digital divide which
are so necessary to our closing that gap.
Ms. Raimondo. Yes, I will commit to prioritizing that and
working with you on that.
Senator Blumenthal. Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
The Chairman. Thank you, Senator Blumenthal. Senator
Fischer.
STATEMENT OF HON. DEB FISCHER,
U.S. SENATOR FROM NEBRASKA
Senator Fischer. Thank you, Mr. Chairman and Governor, it
is a pleasure to see you here today, and I appreciated you
taking time earlier to have a conversation with me. So it is an
important job that you have put your name forward to take on.
And again, I thank you for your willingness to serve. I am
interested in talking more with you on technology and
competitiveness. Just yesterday, the Center for Data Innovation
Report assessed our country's artificial intelligence
capabilities as being in a dead heat with China's.
At the end of 2020, two bills that I led to advance U.S.
Policy on the Internet of Things and emerging technology both
passed into law. The first is the DIGIT Act, which I worked on
with Senator Schatz to ensure that the U.S. remains competitive
on the development and deployment of IOT. This could add
considerable value to our economy, especially in
transportation, manufacturing, agriculture and also energy
sectors. The bill, now law, directs the Secretary of Commerce
to convene a public, private working group and a steering
committee.
If confirmed as Secretary, will you prioritize implementing
the DIGIT Act's working group structures in accordance with
that law?
Ms. Raimondo. Thank you, Senator, and thank you for your
time the other day. I enjoyed the discussion. The answer is
yes. I will look forward to working with you on that. Whether
it is artificial intelligence or 5G or a block chain, we are in
competition and it will be my job, should I be confirmed, to
make sure that Americans can compete and get those jobs. And so
convening that sort of a group would be absolutely a priority
for me working with you.
Senator Fischer. Great. Second, I led the Senate companion
to the American COMPETE Act with Senator Sinema. The
legislation directs the Commerce Department to complete a
series of studies on emerging technologies. These studies will
inform Congress on key sectors of emerging tech, which have
major consequences for our country's economic success. The
Secretary of Commerce plays an important part in conducting
those studies in the Compete Act. Will you commit to ensuring
that, if confirmed, the Secretary's office will take a lead
role in fulfilling this responsibility?
Ms. Raimondo. Thank you, Senator, for that, and yes, I will
commit to working with you on that, focusing on that, and
prioritizing it.
Senator Fischer. Thank you. During our call last week, we
talked about how NOAA works closely with the University of
Nebraska on two important programs: the High Plains Regional
Climate Center and the National Drought Mitigation Center. Both
these programs provide important information on the climate
across the country. If confirmed, will you work with me to
ensure that NOAA continues to support and coordinate with UNL
on these programs?
Ms. Raimondo. So thank you for bringing that up again. I
know this is a priority of yours because you brought it up with
me before, and I look forward to working with you. I will say
here in my home state, NOAA has a significant presence and also
works with our University of Rhode Island to great effect and
to create innovation and jobs. So I will look forward to
supporting you on that.
Senator Fischer. Great. I appreciated in speaking with you
about the Commerce Department recent actions against threats
from China before this hearing. Would you further explain your
perspective on the National Security risk regarding the Chinese
equipment suppliers to our communication networks, particularly
with regard to Huawei?
Ms. Raimondo. Yes, thank you. So National Security has to
come first, obviously. And with respect to 5G, as we spoke
about in your office, there is an opportunity to move forward
in 5G and create great innovation and jobs. But we can't have
the Chinese or really anyone having a backdoor into our network
and compromising in any way our national or economic security.
And so, as Commerce Secretary, should I be confirmed, I will
use the full toolkit at my disposal to the fullest extent
possible to protect Americans and our network from Chinese
interference or any kind of backdoor influence into our
network. And that is Huawei, ZTE, or you know any other
company.
Senator Fischer. Thank you very much. I appreciate your
strong firmness on this issue because it is a National Security
issue. We need, I think, to have a strong voice when we discuss
these issues, and we need to follow up with strength as well.
So I thank you for that firmness and look forward to working
with you. Thank you very much. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
The Chairman. Thank you, Senator Fischer. Senator Schatz.
STATEMENT OF HON. BRIAN SCHATZ,
U.S. SENATOR FROM HAWAII
Senator Schatz. Thank you very much, Mr. Chairman and
Ranking Member. Governor, thank you for the conversation
yesterday. You mentioned in your testimony that Commerce has
the tools and expertise to help communities and businesses
address climate risk. Can you just talk about your top two or
three priorities under existing statute?
Ms. Raimondo. Thank you and good morning. There are a
number of ways that Commerce could influence climate, but most
principally through NOAA. As I said, some of the best
scientists around atmospherics and oceans are at NOAA and are
at the Department. So I would really look forward primarily
through NOAA to address the climate issues posed by warming
oceans, ocean debris, rising tides, the issues around fisheries
and climate to lead again with science and rely on the experts
in the Department. I think it is a very big role for NOAA to
play in the blue economy, but also as we meet the challenges of
climate.
Senator Schatz. Great. And I just encourage you, especially
given what happened with the previous regime, to lock into
whatever extent possible, a scientific integrity policy which
doesn't swing back and forth depending on who the President may
be. I want to pivot to the census, and I think I know the
answer to this question, but I think it is important for the
record, are you going to give the Census Bureau adequate time
to compile and review apportionment and redistricting data?
Ms. Raimondo. Yes I, like you, I know from yesterday's
conversation, I believe that we need to take the politics out
of the Census, and we need to rely on the experts. The experts
and statisticians in the Census Bureau are top notch. So I,
once confirmed, intend to rely on them. And if they advise that
more time is necessary, then I am going to follow the lead of
their expertise.
Senator Schatz. Thank you. We briefly spoke yesterday about
the potential for aquaculture. I know your home state has a
growing aquaculture industry, and Senator Wicker and I have
legislation along those lines. As Secretary, will you work with
Senator Wicker and myself and other members of the Committee to
enact and implement bipartisan legislation to develop a
responsible national aquaculture framework?
Ms. Raimondo. I would embrace that opportunity to work with
you and your other colleagues. We here have used aquaculture
successfully for oysters. I know there are different issues as
it relates to finfish, but, yes, I would look forward to
working with you.
Senator Schatz. Great. And you talked a little bit about a
place-based economic development. Senator Thune and I authored,
and it was signed into law, a law called the Native Act, which
was bipartisan and is designed to strengthen native tourism and
empower local communities to tell their own story. You know,
Brand USA is important. Destination marketing is important. But
a lot of the best opportunities for economic development are
for small towns and cities and tribes and native communities to
tell their own story.
And increasingly, that is what tourists want. The
unfortunate fact is that even though the bill was enacted, it
was never implemented by the previous Commerce Department
Secretary. And I would like your commitment simply to implement
the law and to consult with us as we go along.
Ms. Raimondo. Absolutely, yes.
Senator Schatz. Thank you. And finally, as you know,
Congress allocated $1 billion to NTIA to fund broadband on
tribal lands. Do you commit to establishing a fast and fair
review process so that this money can be immediately deployed
to help unconnected students and individuals during this
pandemic?
Ms. Raimondo. I commit to you and all of your colleagues,
because a number of you had brought it up, to move that as
expeditiously, transparently, and effectively as possible. I do
believe that broadband is a lifesaving and to many people
living in rural and tribal lands don't have it. So, yes, I will
prioritize it and get going quickly.
Senator Schatz. Thank you very much.
The Chairman. Thank you, Senator Schatz. Senator Cruz.
STATEMENT OF HON. TED CRUZ,
U.S. SENATOR FROM TEXAS
Senator Cruz. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Governor,
congratulations on your nomination. Welcome. In recent years,
the United States has successfully used economic pressure to
prevent the People's Republic of China from exploiting American
technology to carry out human rights abuses. This is an area
the previous Administration was particularly active in.
Governor, should you be confirmed, can you please describe the
role you envision for the Department of Commerce in these
efforts, especially as that role relates to export and import
controls?
Ms. Raimondo. Yes, thank you. So as I said earlier, China's
actions have been anti-competitive, hurtful to American workers
and businesses coercive. And as you point out, you know, they
are culpable for atrocious human rights abuses. So whether it
is the entities list or tariffs or countervailing duties, I
intend to use all those tools to the fullest extent possible to
level the playing field for the American worker.
I believe in free trade, but fair trade. Americans can
compete if the rules are fair and the playing field is level.
And I believe my job, should I be confirmed, is to increase the
competitiveness for the American worker and companies,
especially small businesses. President Biden has said that we
are going to step back and have a whole of Government approach
as it relates to the threat of China. And of course, I will
play my role on that team.
Senator Cruz. Well, as you noted, the Department of
Commerce maintains the entity list, which is foreign parties
that engage in activities contrary to U.S. National Security.
And in 2019, I led an effort to add to that list companies the
Chinese Communist Party has used to carry out their
surveillance campaigns of Uyghurs and other oppressive
activities. And I introduced legislation mandating that some of
those companies be listed, the Tiananmen Act. And in the fall
of 2019 and in 2020, the Trump Administration did so, adding
batches of Chinese technology companies to the entities list.
Can you commit, if confirmed, that those companies will remain
on the BIS entities list?
Ms. Raimondo. I will commit to working with you on that,
and I certainly agree with you that the entities list is a
powerful tool in the Commerce Secretary's toolkit to shore up
American National Security.
Senator Cruz. Well, let me ask you about Huawei in
particular. Can you commit that Huawei will remain on the list?
Ms. Raimondo. I will commit that once, should I be
confirmed, and I am there, I will review the policy, consult
with you, consult with industry, consult with our allies and
make an assessment as to what's best for American national and
economic security.
Senator Cruz. Well, I will say there is chatter in
Washington that the Biden Administration is contemplating going
easy on China and removing companies from the entities list. I
certainly hope that does not happen because I think that would
be profoundly contrary to the National Security interests of
the United States. The Department of Commerce's mandate and its
mission is to create conditions for economic growth and
opportunity. The Department of Commerce's job is to advocate
for commerce, to advocate for jobs.
I will say I am certainly concerned that in the Biden
Administration, the Commerce Department will not have that as
its priority. President Biden has named you as a member of the
interagency working group on the social cost of greenhouse
gases. In what Federal statute does the Department of Commerce
find legal authority to promulgate rules concerning greenhouse
gases?
Ms. Raimondo. That is a good question. I am not certain,
but I will tell you that President Biden asks me to serve on
his team in a capacity to help American workers compete or to
fight climate change, then I obviously will be a key player on
that team.
Senator Cruz. So, Governor, your current job as Governor of
Rhode Island, as you know, in 2019, CNBC did its annual
rankings of the states that are friendly to business, and the
state of Rhode Island came out 50th, dead last, the worst state
in the union for businesses. Given that record, how are the
American people--what reassurances can you give the American
people that your performance at Commerce would be better than
the state of Rhode Island has done in terms of creating an
environment where jobs are plentiful?
Ms. Raimondo. When I ran for Governor, Rhode Island had the
highest unemployment rate in the country. And just prior to
COVID, we had the lowest unemployment rate in our state's
history and the most jobs in our state's history. When I ran,
we were 50 out of 50 on Business Insider's ranking and a couple
of years into my term, we were 26th. So my record is clear that
we have created thousands of jobs for the people of Rhode
Island and I look forward to fighting for the American worker,
should I be confirmed.
Senator Cruz. And final question, should you be confirmed,
last week President Biden signed an Executive Order canceling
the Keystone pipeline, destroying 11,000 jobs, including 8,000
union jobs. If you were confirmed as Secretary of Commerce,
what would you say to those 11,000 construction workers whose
jobs have been destroyed by the stroke of a pen? And what would
you say to them?
Ms. Raimondo. I would say we are going to get you to work.
I would say that climate change is a threat to all of us and
that we will make sure that you have jobs, that you have the
skills you need to have a job. And by the way, as we meet the
needs of climate change, there will be many more jobs created,
good paying jobs, union jobs. And should I be the Commerce
Secretary, I will fight every single day for every American to
have a decent paying job and a chance to compete.
Senator Cruz. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Thank you.
The Chairman. Thank you, Senator Cruz. Senator Markey, we
have heard an awful lot from New England already today. Would
you like to just yield back your time?
[Laughter.]
STATEMENT OF HON. EDWARD MARKEY,
U.S. SENATOR FROM MASSACHUSETTS
Senator Markey. Well, this is a great game, Mr. Chairman.
The Bay State and the Ocean State, we agree on a lot of issues
and we are small in numbers, but we are mighty on policies. And
Governor Raimondo is a perfect example of someone who is just
an incredible leader on issues that make her state cutting edge
in just so many areas. And I would like to if I could begin,
Governor, by taking two subjects I usually raise in committees
with Senator Wicker, and that is telecommunications and climate
change. And we are going to need programs and I am going to be
introducing legislation toward this effect in order to protect
our telecommunications networks, our fiber optic networks, and
harden them against the impact of climate change. So I am
asking you whether or not you would work with me toward the
goal of putting together the programs that will help to ensure
that that infrastructure gets protected from the inevitability
of the climate change that is already built into our
atmosphere?
Ms. Raimondo. It would be my honor to work with you. I have
long admired your leadership in this area. And yes, I would
look forward to that.
Senator Markey. Thank you. In the most recent relief bill,
the one that we passed right at the end of 2020, we were able
to include $300 million for relief for the fishing industry,
something that you are very familiar with. So I would love to
hear your views on how quickly, expeditiously that funding can
get out into the hands of the fishing industry in all of its
various manifestations.
Ms. Raimondo. Thank you, Senator. I know you are very
committed to the fishermen in your state. We have talked about
it, and like you, I come from a state with thousands of
fishermen. Should I be confirmed, I will assess that very
quickly and make sure that it is distributed as expeditiously
as possible. The fishermen are struggling like so many others
right now, and we need to do our best to get the money out the
door quickly and effectively and transparently.
Senator Markey. Thank you. And NOAA is just such a critical
agency in terms of protecting our country against the impact of
climate change. And I have a number of pieces of legislation.
One, with Senator Sullivan, the Ocean Research Act to designate
funding for critical research on ocean acidification. I have a
Climate Change Education Act so that NOAA could study and
dispense grants on key climate health and jobs related issues.
So would you, if confirmed, would you work with me on those
issues on climate health and marine science priorities?
Ms. Raimondo. Yes, I would look forward to working with
you.
Senator Markey. Thank you very much. Appreciate it. And the
Nation's first Federal fisheries lab was established at Woods
Hole, Massachusetts, in 1871, 150 years ago. The Northeast
Fisheries Science Center is an invaluable part of Massachusetts
fishery and science community. So, Governor, would you commit
that NOAA's Northeast Fisheries Science Center will remain in
Massachusetts?
Ms. Raimondo. Senator, I deeply admire your advocacy on
this issue. I think you have brought it up with me every time
we have spoken. And should I be confirmed, I will commit to
look into that and work with you on it.
Senator Markey. Well, I thank you for that. And again, I
would like to ask you to come and visit at Woods Hole so that
we can show you the incredible work that is being done right
there on all these fishery issues as well. And I would also ask
you, Governor, if you would consider adding additional NOAA
facilities and capacity in New Bedford and in other areas of
Massachusetts in order to provide the on-the-ground expertise
on fishing, offshore wind and other issues important to
Massachusetts communities?
Ms. Raimondo. I would look forward to coming to Wood Hole
and to New Bedford and exploring that with you.
Senator Markey. And I appreciate very much. Obviously,
workers, fishermen have been under enormous stress over this
past year and before. And so I look forward to working with
you. I think you are going to be a great Secretary of Commerce.
You bring just an incredible background that has prepared you
for this moment in our country's history. So I thank you for
your service to Rhode Island, and to our country in the years
ahead. Thank you.
Ms. Raimondo. Thank you.
The Chairman. Thank you. Thank you, Senator Markey. Senator
Moran.
STATEMENT OF HON. JERRY MORAN,
U.S. SENATOR FROM KANSAS
Senator Moran. Chairman Wicker, thank you. Governor
Raimondo, thank you for being with us today. And thank you for
the conversation we have had recently. Let me start with an
issue for me as an appropriator. As we discussed yesterday, I
chair the subcommittee on Appropriations that funds the
Department of Commerce. We raised with you yesterday, and I
want to do again today, do so again today, a couple of large,
mission-critical, high-cost items within the Department of
Commerce's budget. Two of the Department's largest bureaus,
NOAA and NIST, are both facing crises as it relates to
recapitalizing, aging and in some cases, obsolete
infrastructure. I recently visited the NOAA Aircraft Operations
Center where I learned about the need to recapitalize the
agency's fleet of hurricane hunter aircraft, an effort that
will require more than $600 million in funding before 2024.
Likewise, earlier this year, I visited the NIST campus in
Boulder, Colorado, and the laboratories clearly are aging, and
they are housing some of our Nation's most premier scientists
tasked with some of our country's most challenging issues in
science and technology. So unfortunately, the funding crisis
for these capital costs are often not included in the
department's budget or in those agencies? budgets request. It
is difficult to take things out of everyday operations and put
them into things that are necessary for long-term benefits.
But I would ask you if you will include and prioritize in
the Department's budget request that we will see later this
year and commit to testifying before our subcommittee in regard
to these and the other appropriations items?
Ms. Raimondo. Thank you, Senator, and thank you for
bringing this up as you did yesterday. So first, let me say I
certainly concur that some of the finest scientists and
mathematicians in America are at NIST and at the Department,
and they do deserve adequate facilities. And I will commit to
looking into this and learning more and certainly coming back
to you, should I be confirmed.
Senator Moran. Governor, thank you. I raised also with you
in our conversation something I wanted to raise again, because
I don't know that it will be mentioned by anyone else. And I
wouldn't expect you to be terribly knowledgeable about this
topic. But it is a topic of fertilizer, phosphate fertilizer
that farmers use to grow crops. It is the second most important
fertilizer behind nitrogen. And on February 8, just a few days
from now, Commerce is scheduled to make a final determination
on countervailing duties on phosphate fertilizers from Morocco,
which is one of our Nation's largest suppliers. Since the CBD
investigation began, the price for those fertilizers in the
United States has increased approximately 25 percent.
The higher prices are being passed on to farmers,
increasing their input costs. And it comes at an always
challenging time for farmers and ultimately comes at a very
challenging time for consumers. Governor, I need to highlight
this issue and hope that in making a final determination on
those duties on phosphate fertilizers, you will assure me that
you will take into account the broad impact of those duties
that they have on the agricultural economy, on input costs and
on the consumer.
And I would ask you to consult--I have a conversation with
nominee, Governor Vilsack, Secretary Vilsack to have this
conversation as well and I am going to encourage him to visit
with you about this issue before February the 8th. I need some
reassurance that you understand the magnitude and challenge of
this issue for everyday farmers and ranchers in this country.
Ms. Raimondo. Yes, thank you. Thank you for bringing it up.
I know your passion for this, and I appreciate your advocacy on
behalf of your constituents. Yes, as with all countervailing
duties and tariffs, I understand the pain that some of these
decisions can cause to farmers in your state. And I absolutely
look forward to working with you and Secretary Vilsack. I
will--a strong relationship with him generally as it relates to
all export policies for agriculture and farmers and imports.
Senator Moran. Two other items that I was intended to bring
up or have been brought up by others, I would highlight them
again for you, the Privacy Shield also has a consequence for
data privacy that Senator Blumenthal and I, in particular, have
worked on. And also Senator Blunt raised this morning the issue
of 232 tariffs, and I appreciate the conversation we had on
those. Finally, I would say, Governor, you have prioritized
everyone's request for things that you prioritize. And so I
would finally ask you, will you prioritize my requests over the
priorities of other members of this committee?
[Laughter.]
The Chairman. Don't thank him for that question.
Ms. Raimondo. It is probably one commitment I surely cannot
make.
The Chairman. Senator Baldwin is next.
STATEMENT OF HON. TAMMY BALDWIN,
U.S. SENATOR FROM WISCONSIN
Senator Baldwin. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Governor
Raimondo, as we discussed last week, I hold our Federal
research mission in the highest regard. I think I shared that
my grandfather who raised me was an NIH-funded researcher at
the University of Wisconsin Madison. As Commerce Secretary, you
will enforce the Bayh-Dole Act, which dictates how technology
developed with Federal research dollars can be transferred to
the private sector. Bayh-Dole retains some rights over new
inventions for the Federal Government in order to--the public
interest. It also includes a requirement that these cutting-
edge inventions be manufactured in the United States. At the
very end of the Trump Administration, NIST proposed a new rule
that would prohibit the Federal Government reasserting its
ownership rights over an invention if a private company is
charging too much.
In the middle of a pandemic and a recession, it doesn't
seem like the right time for us to limit the Government's
ability to make products Americans need more affordable. So, in
fact, I believe that innovations that are paid for by the
American taxpayer should be used to improve the lives of the
American people. Governor, will you work with me to amend or
change those rules so we can create jobs and provide Americans
affordable access to new cutting-edge products?
Ms. Raimondo. Thank you, Senator, for bringing that up, as
you did the other day, and, yes, I will commit to working with
you. I will also say that in my time in the private sector as a
venture capitalist, we worked extensively with universities
around tech transfer. And so I do have some familiarity with
the power of how many jobs you can create if you harness that
sort of technology. And this is, you know, a leader in that.
Senator Baldwin. Thank you. The Department of Commerce also
has the opportunity to play an important role in ensuring that
our Nation's infrastructure is more resilient to the effects of
climate change and extreme weather events. In Wisconsin and
throughout the Midwest that means infrastructure that can
withstand severe flooding that is occurring with increased
regularity. My bipartisan Built to Last Act would help ensure
Federal, state, and local, and private infrastructure is more
resilient by equipping those who develop building codes with
the best available climate information and technical assistance
if needed. The bill includes directives for NOAA and NIST, and
it could be carried out by executive action. So, Governor, if
confirmed, do I have your commitment to supporting climate
resilient infrastructure, including efforts like those in my
bipartisan Built to Last Act?
Ms. Raimondo. Thank you. I look forward to learning more
about what is in the bill specifically. But certainly I, and
again, I am a Governor of a coastal state. We are uniquely
vulnerable to the harms of climate change. I understand the
value of shoring up our infrastructure and, you know, look
forward to working with you on the issue.
Senator Baldwin. Thank you. In 2013, I successfully worked
to reopen the process at NOAA that allows states to nominate
their nationally significant marine areas for Federal
protection as national marine sanctuaries. And Wisconsin has
nominated an area of Lake Michigan. This proposal required and
garnered tremendous local support and a wide range of
stakeholders have worked together for years to plan and
advocate for, to protect and celebrate this really remarkable
resource. Do you support the mission of NOAA's Marine Sanctuary
Program? And if confirmed, would you ensure that the pending
designation process for the Wisconsin Marine Sanctuary moves
forward without delay?
Ms. Raimondo. So thank you for bringing this up and for
advocating. You know, I do support the process and I will
assure you I will look into the details of that and move it
forward to the best of my abilities.
Senator Baldwin. Thank you.
The Chairman. Thank you, Senator Baldwin. Senator Sullivan.
STATEMENT OF HON. DAN SULLIVAN,
U.S. SENATOR FROM ALASKA
Senator Sullivan. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. And Governor, I
appreciated our opportunity to have a good discussion on a
number of critical issues yesterday, so thanks for your time.
And I am going to follow up on some of those in my remarks. One
thing that I didn't get to ask you about was this issue that
you highlighted in your testimony today which I watched, and I
thought was very powerful, good paying jobs and the story about
your dad losing a job. I think that is going to be critical as
we are in this recession. And to be honest, one of the things I
am worried about, we have had a huge development in America
with regard to the energy sector.
This is everything, renewables, clean energy, oil, gas,
where we have become the dominant player in the world. Pretty
remarkable. Almost everybody thinks that is a good thing to be
the superpower of energy again, all of the above energy. And it
definitely produces millions of good jobs. It has reduced
greenhouse gas emissions with the revolution in natural gas
spreads, stretched budgets for families. But one concern I
have, I am having a hard time finding anyone in the Biden,
incoming Biden cabinet who will be an advocate for a strong
energy sector in America. This, to me, seems like a very basic,
non-controversial proposition and in fact, out of the gate,
some of the Biden Administration's moves seem to be directly
targeted at actually killing energy sector jobs or related
sectors.
So can I ask you to commit to being that advocate, given
your important position, should you be confirmed for the energy
sector, broad based, everything, renewables, clean energy,
wind, as you have been a leader in, but also traditional
energy, oil and gas, and certainly not to be an advocate for
targeting putting thousands of people out of work in the
sector, which has already happened in the first week of the
Obama or Biden Administration. Can I get your commitment on
that?
Ms. Raimondo. Thank you, Senator. Thank you for your time
yesterday. Obviously as Commerce Secretary, I will not be
playing a primary role on President Biden's team as it relates
to energy policy. But I will do everything within my power to
help create jobs for American people. And as it relates to
NOAA, I think that as Commerce Secretary, should I be
confirmed, I will have the opportunity to help create thousands
of jobs with offshore wind in particular.
Senator Sullivan. Let me--well, I appreciate that. I just
want to make sure that again there shouldn't be discrimination
against good paying jobs, and I am starting to feel that there
is. And we shouldn't have that in our country, particularly as
we are in a recession. Let me talk and again, I really
appreciated our opportunities to chat yesterday. I just want to
get your commitments that we talked about. You know, having
broad based sustainable fisheries is going to be critical for
America. You will be the leader in this if confirmed overseeing
NOAA.
As I mentioned yesterday, over two-thirds, almost two-
thirds of all fish harvested in the United States come from
Alaska. So we are the superpower of seafood. No offense to my
colleague, Senator Scott, who is sitting right next to me from
Florida. But can I get your commitment to work with me on
surveys, on data to make sure the United States and my state
continue to have the most sustainable, best managed fisheries
in the world?
Ms. Raimondo. So first, let me say that in my state, we
have over 4,000 people who make a living commercial fishing,
and they have for generations. They did, their father, their
grandfather did. And I understand how important that part of
the economy is in your state. And you have a strong commitment
to work closely with you on making sure that the surveys and
the stock assessments, etcetera, are fact-based, science based,
and we really take into account the needs and concerns of the
fishermen and the stakeholders in your state.
Senator Sullivan. Well, I appreciate that. And I
appreciated your discussion of your own background on
fisheries. I think that is going to be critical if confirmed as
you come into this role. Finally on an area that we talked
about yesterday, and I will have more questions for the record
to submit. But on the healthy oceans, can you commit to working
with me and other members of the Senate in a bipartisan way on
the implementation of the Save Our Seas 2.0, which Senator
Whitehouse and I were able to get over the goal line and signed
by President Trump in December, which will--Congressional
researchers call it the most comprehensive ocean cleanup
legislation ever to come out of the Congress. A lot of the
implementation that will be under your leadership if confirmed.
Ms. Raimondo. Yes, absolutely.
Senator Sullivan. Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
The Chairman. Thank you, Senator. Thank you very much,
Senator Sullivan. Before I recognize Senator Peters, let me say
we have 11 members who have not yet asked questions, 13 members
have asked questions, and we have a vote at noon, which we will
work through. But I do ask members to stick very closely to the
5-minute rule. Senator Peters.
STATEMENT OF HON. GARY PETERS,
U.S. SENATOR FROM MICHIGAN
Senator Peters. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. And Governor
Raimondo, it is certainly great to see you and congratulations
on your nomination and your willingness to serve in this
capacity. Certainly, I enjoyed our opportunity to talk at
length on a number of these issues prior to this meeting. And
among the many things that I learned, I was very pleased to
know your very strong family connections to the state of
Michigan from your husband and all of your in-laws up in Mount
Pleasant, Michigan.
And those Michigan roots that you have in your family are
wonderful and happy to hear that. And I also appreciate it, and
you have said, you have talked about the story again in today's
hearing about your father's struggles related to manufacturing
and the need for us to make sure that we have a strong
manufacturing sector in this country. I know it is something
that you feel very passionate about. And if this pandemic has
taught us anything, it is that our domestic manufacturing and
that our supply chains are vulnerable because we have not
prioritized and coordinated manufacturing policy at the Federal
level in a way that we should.
I believe you can't be a great country if you don't
actually make things. And in order to do that, we need to lean
in. Given the fact that although we have 58 different
manufacturing programs within the Federal Government, they are
spread out over 11 different Federal agencies. There is
duplication, there is wasted resources and there isn't a
singular vote. And when we talked earlier, I talked about
legislation that I have proposed to create a National Institute
of Manufacturing that would give that unified voice and that
coordinated strategy that some of our main competitors, like
South Koreans and Germany, are engaged in, to allow us to
compete effectively. It would establish a chief manufacturing
officer, require a national strategic plan for manufacturing,
and elevate National Manufacturing Council, something that has
been basically defunct over the last 4 years under the Trump
Administration, build out the manufacturing.gov is one stop hub
for small and medium manufacturers to get additional help to
make sure that their businesses are as successful as possible,
as well as create a national institute.
So my question for you Governor is, if confirmed as
Secretary, will you commit with this committee and with me to
elevate manufacturing policy generally, perhaps speak to that,
as well as strengthening our industrial sector by addressing
some of the items that I brought up?
Ms. Raimondo. So thank you for that question. I will
wholeheartedly commit to, should I be confirmed, using all of
the strength and tools of the Commerce Department to do
everything I can to bolster manufacturing. As I said, it is
important to me. It is how I was raised. I have worked very
closely as my time as Governor with the Rhode Island
manufacturers and would look forward to working closely with
you as well.
Senator Peters. Well, thank you for that. One of the big
challenges facing smaller manufacturing industries and domestic
producers is unfair trade from foreign Governments. We have an
issue in Michigan with our cherry growers. So we are cherry
capital USA, our tart cherry producers, but they are facing
significant, unfair trade from Turkey that has had a
significant negative impact on their ability to produce. And
quite frankly, it is an existential threat.
I have introduced legislation to empower the Commerce
Department to be more actively engaged in self initiating
enforcement actions to help smaller manufacturers, smaller
producers like cherry growers. In Michigan, we have cherry
growers who are facing this competition. And in order to fight
back, they had to raise millions of dollars to take the case
forward. These are small growers that don't have the money to
put up to do that because they are struggling just to keep
their operation functioning and they really need a partner. And
I certainly believe that the Federal Government can be that
partner for those industries that can't hire an army of lawyers
and economists to fight these trade actions.
I am working on legislation, self-initiation legislation
with Senator Burr, a bipartisan basis and certainly, if
confirmed, would love to have your commitment to work on how we
strengthen our ability to push back on unfair foreign
competition for our small industries, small manufacturers, and
others that are being impacted by this activity.
Ms. Raimondo. Thank you for bringing it up. You brought it
up the other day. I hear your passion to stick up for the
cherry industry. Absolutely will work with you. Will also
commit to making Commerce more accessible to the small
companies and farmers and work with Secretary Vilsack to do
that. I think, as I told you every year on his birthday, I make
my husband a cherry cake with Michigan cherry. So on this one,
you had me at hello.
Senator Peters. Well, that is wonderful, Governor. Thank
you for your answers.
The Chairman. Thank you very much, Senator Peters. Senator
Blackburn.
STATEMENT OF HON. MARSHA BLACKBURN,
U.S. SENATOR FROM TENNESSEE
Senator Blackburn. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Governor, thank
you for your time yesterday in order to work through some of
these questions. I do appreciate the time that you gave me on
the phone. And I appreciate some of your comments that you
made. I know that a lot of people have focused on the seas and
fisheries, but instead of the high waves I am going to take
you, or the high seas, I am going to take you up there to
spectrum. And let's look at the utilization of spectrum. And of
course, the NTIA and their positioning in making certain that
they are properly managing broadband, they are properly
managing spectrum by the Federal Government. So we talked a
little bit about 5G yesterday and having that 5G
telecommunications network. And so a simple yes or no for the
record. Do you or do you not support nationalization of a 5G
telecommunications network?
Ms. Raimondo. I do not. I share your concerns about a
nationalized 5G network.
Senator Blackburn. Thank you. I appreciate that. Let's look
at the broadband mapping. We talked a little bit about the
importance of getting rural America online and connected. And
mapping is a big part of this. You have the 477 maps that FCC
and NTIA have worked to complete. And so how do you plan to
leverage the national broadband availability map in making
policy recommendations for rural Internet access, putting a
distinction between those areas that are unserved and
underserved?
Ms. Raimondo. Thank you, Senator. So first, let me just say
I look forward to working with you and learning from you on
this, and you have my commitment to prioritize underserved
areas, including rural and tribal areas. I have heard for the
past 10 months from many Governors, Republican and Democrat
alike, all across America, about how many of their citizens
don't have access to broadband, which means they can't go to
school, go to the doctor to sign up for a vaccine. I commit to
having a strong NTIA, a spectrum strategy, looking at the maps,
looking at ways to share spectrum, looking at ways to find
spectrum to be available so that we can close the digital
divide. It is not a luxury good. I mean, people, everybody
deserves access to broadband.
Senator Blackburn. If I may, you use putting the emphasis
on underserved. What we need to do and have to do is put the
emphasis on unserved areas, those that have nothing. What got
the Federal Government, I think, quite frankly, into a little
bit of a problem during the Obama and Biden stimulus, was they
allowed underserved. That is why you have some cities that have
a gig and right outside that city limit, you have nothing. So,
Governor, I would just highlight with you that is a very
important distinction. And we need to prioritize these unserved
areas because you cannot, as we discussed yesterday, have
access to 21st century economic development, health care,
education, or law enforcement without access to high-speed
Internet. Privacy Shield, we talked a little bit about Privacy
Shield yesterday. So how do you plan to continue the Privacy
Shield negotiations with the Europeans?
Ms. Raimondo. Thank you. As I said, I understand that
Privacy Shield is necessary for many companies, especially
small companies who rely upon transfers of data. So I intend
to, should I be confirmed, prioritize finalizing the
negotiations so we have a successor agreement that enables
these businesses to conduct their business.
Senator Blackburn. Thank you.
The Chairman. Thank you, Senator Blackburn. Governor
Raimondo, Senator Blackburn hammers home a very important
point. There is $1.3 billion in broadband grants, $1 billion
for tribal areas, $300 million for broadband deployment in
unserved areas. We absolutely have to make sure that money is
devoted to unserved, absolutely unserved areas and make sure
that those funds are not used to overbuild areas that already
have some service. So I am glad we have re-emphasized that
point again. Senator Duckworth, you are recognized.
STATEMENT OF HON. TAMMY DUCKWORTH,
U.S. SENATOR FROM ILLINOIS
Senator Duckworth. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Thank you,
Governor Raimondo. Congratulations on your nomination. I
enjoyed speaking with you last week, and I am confident that
your executive experience working with business to grow the
economy in your home state of Rhode Island will prepare you
well to lead the Commerce Department. In my view, I think
Commerce is one of the more underrated departments in the
Federal Government. And with strong leadership and robust
funding, Commerce could play a critical role in helping
American manufacturers, small business owners, and
entrepreneurs commercialize products, reach new customers, and
hire even more workers. I am going to turn my volume up just a
little bit. Sorry about this.
On that note, I wanted to know how we can do to promote
American innovation, supporting long neglected communities and
leveling the playing field for U.S. Companies competing with
foreign competitors. There are three programs in particular I
would like to discuss with you, which we did talk about when we
met last week. First, the Manufacturing Extension Partnership.
One of the most pivotal programs overseen by a Commerce is the
MEP. My state partner organization with the MEP network, IMEC,
delivers incredible value to Illinois small businesses and
manufacturers by helping improve their operations, implement
long term strategy, commercialize their products, and grow
their companies. And last year, IMEC helped small businesses in
my state weather the COVID-19 crisis and assist others at a
very critical moment in our fight against a pandemic. For
instance, when a company in Bensenville wanted to remake some
of its products to help first responders, health care workers,
service members and service providers to decontaminate N-95
masks quickly, they turned to IMEC to make sure that they were
fully compliant with available guidance and working with the
right Government partners in the fight against COVID.
Now, I know you have the same success story in Rhode Island
itself. Your own Polaris MEP helped connect your state with a
nearby manufacturing company to produce vitally needed PPE
gowns last year. And I imagine you share my confusion when you
heard that the Trump Administration in every single budget has
sought to eliminate all Federal funding for a MEP, not once but
in every single budget that they have put forward. Seeking to
eliminate MEP which is enthusiastically supported by Democratic
and Republican members alike, may have been one of the most
short-sighted and unbelievable proposals that Trump
Administration sent up the Hill.
I was pleased to join a broad bipartisan majorities in
Congress on multiple occasions to not only reject Trump's
effort to gut the MEP program, but to go further and increasing
funding for Fiscal Year 2021. Governor Raimondo, can you
describe your experience working with MEP as Governor of Rhode
Island and provide your commitment to work with me and
championing even greater Federal investment in IMEC, Polaris
MEP and the entire MEP national network?
Ms. Raimondo. Thank you, Senator. Yes, I have had a
fantastic experience here in Rhode Island with our MEP program
and I am a strong supporter of the MEP program. President Biden
has said he would like to have it expanded, which is something
I support. I think I have been clear today that, should
confirmed, I would like to be a champion for the American
worker, but American manufacturers and do everything I can,
including executing MEP to expand the industry, promote
innovation, and help be a leader in manufacturing.
Senator Duckworth. Thank you. Would you also show the same
support for the EDA, Economic Development Administration, the
EDA program, especially on prioritizing President Biden's
proposal to establish a new EDA division focused on helping
disadvantaged communities get ahead? And will you help my
office with some technical assistance to help us codify this
effort into law to ensure that it lasts through successive
Administrations?
Ms. Raimondo. Should I be confirmed, I will make sure you
have full access to me and all the tools in the department to
work with you on that. And again, as Governor, I see how
powerful EDA can be in a community for economic development,
and I would look forward to leading with you in that area, in
your state and every state.
Senator Duckworth. Thank you. And my colleague from
Michigan, Senator Peters, just talked about the cherry wars
with the country of Turkey. And you and I chatted a little bit
about steel dumping and how desperately needed the Department
of Commerce is when it comes to businesses trying to settle
trade disputes. If confirmed as Secretary of Commerce, how will
you prioritize trade enforcement and work with other agencies
to combat circumvention of our Nation's trade laws through
practices like the transshipping of goods, while providing
small businesses with confidence that their interests will be
aggressively represented in the trade remedy process? By the
time that they can bring their own case, they are out of
business and bankrupt. They need your help.
Ms. Raimondo. Yes, I understand that. As I said, I think
the American worker can compete if the rules are fair, and I
will enforce to the fullest extent possible the rules that
Commerce has to protect American workers and businesses, with
special eye to smaller businesses that struggle, as you say.
Senator Duckworth. Would you consider having someone within
your office like a trade czar or somebody who would head up
that effort when it comes to trade disagreements?
Ms. Raimondo. You mentioned that the other day. I think it
is a very interesting idea and I look forward to learning more
about it.
Senator Duckworth. Thank you. I yield back, Mr. Chairman.
The Chairman. Thank you. Senator Capito.
STATEMENT OF HON. SHELLEY MOORE CAPITO,
U.S. SENATOR FROM WEST VIRGINIA
Senator Capito. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. And thank you,
Ranking Member Cantwell. Thank you, Governor, for being not
only nominated, but thank you for your testimony and
willingness to speak to me as it seems like you have spoken to
everybody, which is incredible. Last week I enjoyed our
conversation. We talked about some of the same issues that many
people have brought up. I am going to go to the EDA, first of
all. You and I talked about how the EDA's presence in your
state of Rhode Island and I have talked about how impactful and
what a growing impact EDA has had in our states.
But I do have a question in terms of the President's
proposed stimulus recommends an additional $3 billion for EDA.
And I value and respect the focus of that. I have great
concerns about an agency that has an annual budget of $330
million to be able to absorb not just the $3 billion that he is
proposing, but also the $1.5 billion that we put in with the
CARES Act. So how would you propose to be able to meet that
capacity, a challenge I think the EDA would have, to make sure
that the money is being spent not only in--not just throw it
out, but also making sure that it is targeted, well spent, and
efficiently spent? Do you have any ideas on that?
Ms. Raimondo. Yes, thank you. So first, let me say, as we
rebuild post-COVID, I believe that the EDA can and needs to
play a very strong and important role in the rebuilding to help
Americans get back to work in their communities. Second, I
understand your concern. I have been Governor for 6 years, a
public executive for 10 years. Implementation matters and I
have a strong track record of good management, transparency,
and implementation.
And what I will say to you is I understand the concern. It
is obviously very valid. I need to get in the job, and be
confirmed, and we will come back to you with your permission to
have a discussion about, you know, whether there are any
additional resources needed in EDA in order to effectively
implement such a large infusion.
Senator Capito. I would welcome that. I think that would be
wise and I think that would be a great way to address the
challenge. I am going to switch over to NTIA and I know some
others have asked you about this, but we talked about broadband
in your state. You have more urban broadband issues. We have a
lot of rural broadband. Certainly this committee has done a lot
of work in this. But one of the areas that we have really
fallen short is on the mapping situation. Who really is served
and to what degree are they served and what can we do to more
accurately deploy the Federal resources to those that it is
intended for, the unserved and underserved?
And so I would just encourage you, West Virginia was one of
the first eight states to be in the broadband mapping. There
are now 22 states that are in there. They are using state
resources as well, because you can't just rely on the providers
to tell you where they are serving or just one state entity, I
think you--or Federal entity. I think you need an all hands-on
deck approach. And I know this is important to you for your
state. Do you have any other perspectives on how we can get to
that broadband mapping accurately when we see the urgency the
pandemic has brought for broadband deployment?
Ms. Raimondo. Thank you. I share your urgency on this. And
as I have said, it is lifesaving. People need access to
broadband to go to the doctor, to go to school, to have a job.
So I will commit to prioritizing it and also to engaging
stakeholders. I have learned in my time as Governor that if you
talk to people on the ground, companies, constituencies,
individuals, you have a better assessment of the challenges on
the ground and therefore, you know, better able to meet their
needs.
Senator Capito. I think that is a great approach. Sounds
like a good Governor approach to me at the same time. And last,
I will just mention as I did to you, our NOAA facility that we
are very proud of in Fairmont. We do a lot of supercomputing
there. We also have the Enterprise Security Operations Center,
which it does a lot of cybersecurity. You can imagine a lot of
the data that is collected, and the satellite sphere is very
important to our National Security, but also to our homeland
security in terms of protecting life and property, in terms of
being able to not just predict, but be able to front-run
certain kinds of what would potentially be weather disasters or
other things.
So I would just, I mentioned to you, I invite you to come
to Fairmont on your confirmation and to see the NOAA facility
and see where the great folks in Fairmont could be more helpful
and use that expertise that they, combined with the educational
centers, to be able to enlarge their presence. And my time is
done, and I listen to what my Chairman says, and he says, stick
to the time. So, thank you very much.
The Chairman. Thank you, Senator Capito. Senator Tester.
STATEMENT OF HON. JON TESTER,
U.S. SENATOR FROM MONTANA
Senator Tester. I want to thank you, Mr. Chairman, both
Chairmen as a matter of fact, and I want to thank you Governor
for being here. I come to you a bit blurry today, and I am not
even in Montana. I am in D.C., which brings me to broadband.
The Chairman. I am actually seeing double here on the
screen.
Senator Tester. Yes, I know, I know. Just, close one eye
and it will be better. So I want to talk broadband a little
bit, Governor. There--it is a four-or five-legged stool with
the FCC, Rural Development, USDA, and NTIA. I think that is an
incredible challenge and getting what many of the questions
have talked about and getting broadband built into unserved
areas.
Tell me what your--tell me if you thought about this,
number one. And number two, do you have some ideas on how to
get the different agencies to work as one? I, quite frankly,
think we ought to put it into one. And I know there is some
difficulties in doing that, but it is really tough to have
accountability when you have four different agencies doing the
same thing.
Ms. Raimondo. So thank you for this, and I just again want
to reiterate that this will be a strong focus of mine because I
know it is a problem on tribal lands, rural, you know,
everywhere. And I have learned in my time as Governor a bit
about how to break down silos in Government. It is difficult,
but I believe it is possible if we have a shared goal, as we
will in this instance. It is bipartisan. It is necessary.
We need to break down the silos and come together to
achieve that goal. And I will just commit to you that I will
lead on the issue and also collaborate, as you say, with the
FCC, with other areas of Government in order to make sure we
deliver for the American people. The American people don't care
about our silos and bureaucracy. They want us to deliver and
that is what I will work on.
Senator Tester. Well, I appreciate that. And just to show
how effective you are, I am now in focus. So that is incredible
work Governor already and you are not even confirmed. Look, in
Montana, the wood products industry is really an important
industry. It creates a lot of jobs, provides lumber for
building homes and corrals and everything else. The duties on
softwood lumber, I would hope you would maintain that where
they are now, because it is fair and it offers full opportunity
for forest management and creation of jobs across Montana,
across the West, you know, across the whole country. Maine is
also there. I am sure Michigan and other places are too.
So I appreciate you doing that. And I want to talk about
the Census just really quickly, because it is generally
believed that because of the pandemic and because of this
Administration's inability to get things right, the census
numbers are not right. And I was wondering if you have any
ideas on how to address that? I will tell you that I think it
is a challenge in rural America and it is a particular
challenge in any country where the pandemic hit them very, very
hard. Do you have any ideas on how to, after the fact, try to
get these numbers accurate?
Ms. Raimondo. Yes, I appreciate that. And I have worked
hard here to make sure everybody is counted. As I said, first,
let's take the politics out. And second, you have to listen to
the experts. So I look forward to being confirmed, getting in
the seat, and really rolling up my sleeves and listening to the
experts and relying on, in the Census Department, relying on
their assessment and evaluation as to how accurate the data is.
And if they need more time, then certainly open to that.
Senator Tester. Well, just to give you a data point. In
Blackfeet, the self-response rate was 29 percent. And I think
it is pretty similar that across the large land-based tribes in
this country. And so there is a lot of work to do. Very
quickly, because I have only got a minute and 20 seconds. China
has been brought up a number of times. You have talked about
your philosophy of free but fair trade. I think this
Administration has botched up the relationships with trade with
China by, quite frankly, trying to go it alone.
And I don't think you can do that. I think not only has the
United States been impacted by China's currency manipulation
and other things, but other countries are too. Can you give me
an idea on how you are going to deal with China? Because they
are not going to change unless they are forced to change. And
just to stand up at a podium and scream and holler about how
unfair things are, is not going to get it done.
And so can you tell me what your plan for China is going to
be as far as this country and other countries and what your
recommendations to Biden and the Biden Administration are going
to be when it comes to China?
Ms. Raimondo. So, first of all, I would say we cannot
underestimate the threat. Second of all, it has to require a
whole of Government response. And I will play my role in that
if confirmed. Third, I agree with you that we need to work with
our allies, and we need to be very serious because it is not
fair what is happening to American workers.
Senator Tester. Thank you. And thank you, Mr. Chairman.
The Chairman. Thank you, Senator Tester. Senator Johnson.
STATEMENT OF HON. RON JOHNSON,
U.S. SENATOR FROM WISCONSIN
Senator Johnson. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Welcome,
Governor. Let me start out by apologizing if I ask you
questions that you have already covered. I did chair a business
meeting on the consideration of Ale Mayorka's nomination, which
was reported favorably on the floor. So I apologize up front. I
do want to cover Section 230 and the power of the social media
companies. Let me just first start by asking you, do you
believe that social media companies have amassed too much
power, both commercially as well as from a standpoint of media
and a role in censorship? Let's start just commercially, their
ability to just the platform businesses without any kind of
recourse.
Ms. Raimondo. Well, I believe in competition and innovation
and as it relates to social media companies, I think they need
to be held accountable for what they put on their platform. We
need responsible online discourse and platform accountability.
Senator Johnson. That didn't really answer the question, do
you believe they have become too powerful? Do you think the
Federal Government does need to step in and take some kind of
action as it is unclear what that action really should be?
Ms. Raimondo. That is an issue that I think I would leave
to Congress and the FTC, but as I said, I believe in
competition and I think that it is important that we look at
the social media companies in that regard.
Senator Johnson. They are really, from my standpoint, two
components of Section 230, liability protection. One is
protection from what people load onto your platform. The other
one is in what they call their moderation policies. One thing I
think I have proposed is leave in place the liability
protection on what people load onto your platform. But really
take a serious look at removing the liability protection for
the fact that you maybe don't have transparent policies and how
you do censor, how you do moderate, what your moderation
policies are. Would you agree with that approach?
Ms. Raimondo. I would agree that we need some reform in
Section 230, and I would look forward to working with you on
that. I know you are a leader in this area, and I would use, if
confirmed, use the resources at NTIA to convene stakeholders,
convene industry, consult you and other Members of Congress to
figure out the details of that reform.
Senator Johnson. Well, there is an interesting article in
The Wall Street Journal written by Andy Kessler today where he
shares my concern that if Congress gets involved in this,
chances are we will probably do more harm than good. But one of
his proposals really was to end anonymity.
When you have people being able to hop onto these social
platforms completely anonymous, you end up with the result we
have. I thought is a pretty interesting proposal. What would
you think about--the basic concept was the Facebooks, the
Twitters of the world have to know their customers so that if
there is incitement, if there are problems, those customers can
be held accountable? Do you think that is something you could
support?
Ms. Raimondo. As I said, I think platform accountability is
important. I have seen in my own state that misinformation
hurts people. You know, misinformation posted anonymously or
otherwise can hurt people. So we have to hold these companies
accountable. We need platform accountability. But, of course,
that reform would have to be balanced against the fact that
these businesses rely upon user generated content for their
innovation and they have created many thousands of jobs. So I
think it is a complex issue. I know you are a leader in it, and
I look forward to working with you.
The Chairman. Senator Johnson, let's put that Wall Street
Journal piece in the record at this point. Is there objection
to that?
Senator Johnson. Without objection.
The Chairman. Without objection, it would be done.
[The information referred to follows:]
Wall Street Journal
OPINION | INSIDE VIEW
Online Speech Wars Are Here to Stay
Both left and right want to regulate social media, but their `fixes'
would break the web.
By Andy Kessler--Jan. 24, 2021 5:14 pm ET
PHOTO: DADO RUVIC/REUTERS
Ding dong, he's gone, but Donald Trump's bans from Facebook,
Twitter, Google, Reddit, Snapchat, Grindr (wait, what?), Pinterest,
TikTok and others mostly persist. Don't bans on Mr. Trump and others
violate the First Amendment? Actually, it's private companies invoking
their own First Amendment right to bar things they don't like. But even
Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey called it ``a failure.'' That's also true of
Parler's decapitation. Never mind that these actions seem partisan and
hypocritical; the bans will continue until morale improves. Democrats
may cheer but the precedent is scary--soon they'll be silencing their
own. Vive la guillotine electronique.
Expect the siren calls for regulation to become deafening--mostly
focused on ``updating'' Section 230 of the 1996 Communications Decency
Act, the provision that limits social-media companies' liability for
things users say. A year ago Joe Biden said it should be ``revoked,
immediately.'' The law states that except for illegal materials like
child pornography, companies can host everything and employ their own
community standards to take down what they consider offensive.
This mess was all predicted by a comic strip (really!) in 2004,
when only Harvard dorm residents knew about TheFacebook--and Twitter
was two years away. John ``Gabe'' Gabriel--the alter ego of one of the
creators of Penny Arcade, a web comic--came up with the Greater
Internet [Jerkwad] Theory (obscenity deleted). The theory is spelled
out on a green chalkboard: ``Normal Person + Anonymity + Audience =
Total [Jerkwad]'' while interpreters note that ``normal, well-adjusted
people may display psychopathic or antisocial behaviors when given both
anonymity and a captive audience on the Internet.'' It's no longer a
theory, is it?
In our new slushy, snowflake-soaked society, some folks are
offended by just about anything, and are quick to deploy torches and
pitchforks to silence and cancel anything not currently considered
politically correct. It's worth reiterating: social media and all its
benefits (ask small businesses) wouldn't exist without Section 230.
Instead of hiring hundreds of thousands of coders, Facebook and Twitter
would instead be giant law firms forever fighting lawsuits.
Still, Facebook ran ads all fall practically begging for
regulation. But any attempt to ``fix'' Section 230 would surely kill
it. Legislation would be a bicameral camel--a horse designed by
committee--trying to define community standards, hate speech, what
``incites'' riots, what constitutes ``systemic'' racism and on and on,
with the inevitable loopholes for certain politicians and favored
groups.
Lost in the hysteria of Section 230 is the fact that it doesn't
currently stop anyone from suing social media users. But that can be
hard since so many are anonymous or almost impossible to identify. Just
who is @barronjohn1946? Big Tech has all the money, so it would be
easier to sue them--but you can't.
Twitter tried to quash the unmasking of an anonymous user,
@whysprtech, who in 2016 had released forged FBI documents concerning
the death of Democratic National Committee staffer Seth Rich. Last
fall, courts ruled that Twitter had to release that information when
Rich's brother wanted to sue for defamation.
In many ways, that's the solution--end anonymity. On Wall Street
it's called ``Know your customer'': Citigroup CEO Michael Corbat talks
about the bank's KYC rule all the time. Goldman Sachs forgot about KYC
when it did deals with the swindlers at 1MDB. Know your customer is
mandated to stop money laundering. Maybe it can work for rhetoric
laundering and put an end to Gabe's theory.
Sure, there's value to spontaneous users speaking freely about
everything, but no one really knows how many fake accounts spewing fake
news exist. Truth is elusive. So why not impose know-your-customer on
social-media companies. Facebook and Twitter don't want to know their
customers simply because it would be expensive. Too bad. Yes, it would
be hard and their user counts would drop, maybe halve, but advertisers
would rejoice. It might be cheaper than today's band-aid of hiring tens
of thousands of content moderators.
How to do it? Require a credit card, like Apple does to use its app
store? Maybe. A driver's license? Passport? A trip to the post office
or DMV (yikes!) to be identified? Require showing your voter ID? Oh
that's right, there is no voter ID. Any way you choose, identify
posters.
Let's face it, Twitter can be a cesspool of snark. Of course,
that's what attracts many of us. Will that change? Maybe. But I like a
world in which someone can be sued when he posts threatening language.
If someone libels you, you can sue him. Post about buying zip ties and
invading the Capitol, and the FBI knocks on your door. This would put
an immediate damper on today's worst offenders.
Every social-media company would complain but secretly agree with a
know-your-customer mandate. The alternative is mindless legislators
fatally rewriting Section 230 and vengeful swampers continuing their
gung-ho quest to break up everything in sight.
Write to [email protected].
Appeared in the January 25, 2021, print edition.
Senator Johnson. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. In my final
minute, I want to revisit net neutrality. I would rather not. I
really applaud Chairman Pai and his courage against protests
and threats of removing any types of policies that tried to
create net neutrality, which I think would have done just the
opposite of what net neutrality sounds like it would do. I
haven't seen people being throttled back. I haven't seen this
be an issue. What I have seen is continued investment in the
Internet, which is why Chairman Pai instituted those orders.
Where do you stand on net neutrality? I am hoping and praying
this Administration is going to reraise that issue.
Ms. Raimondo. I have been in favor as a Governor and I am,
I say generally in favor of policies which create more of a
level playing field and more equal access.
Senator Johnson. It seems Mr. Chairman has left. Let me
just follow up on that. Do you agree with me that it has not
been--you know, since Chairman Pai acted, we have not seen a
real problem in not having some of these net neutrality rules
in place? I mean, where is the problem? Is this a solution--is
this a solution looking for a problem?
Ms. Raimondo. As I said, I would look forward to working
with you on this and to, in my capacity at Commerce and to the
extent that there are levers in the Commerce Secretary's
Department, to work with you on the issue.
Senator Johnson. OK. So I turn it over to Senator Sinema?
Senator Cantwell. Yes. Senator Sinema, thank you.
STATEMENT OF HON. KYRSTEN SINEMA,
U.S. SENATOR FROM ARIZONA
Senator Sinema. Thank you so much, Madam Chairman, and
thanks to Governor Raimondo for joining us today. You know,
Arizona is one of the fastest growing states in the Nation and
is a leader in creating jobs, economic growth and opportunity
for the people of our state. The Department of Commerce's
mission is to overcome obstacles to development and create the
conditions for economic growth and opportunity. The Department
achieves that goal through agencies and bureaus that focus on
many important issues like broadband development, the census,
and drought information. I am looking forward to working with
my colleagues in this committee to develop bipartisan solutions
to invest in Arizona and create the economic environment we
need to continue to grow and succeed. Governor Raimondo, if you
are confirmed for this important role, I look forward to
working collaboratively to create good paying jobs and continue
sustainable growth for all Arizona communities, from our
largest cities to our rural and tribal areas.
My top priority over the last year has been working with
local, state, and Federal partners to keep Arizonans healthy
and safe from the pandemic. Now, it has put a spotlight on the
digital divide in this country, and I encourage the NTIA to
play a major role in expanding broadband. As you know, the last
COVID relief bill included new opportunities for NTIA,
including a $300 million program to promote broadband expansion
to unserved rural areas and a $1 billion program for tribal
broadband. What are your plans for broadband expansion? And can
you commit to coordinating closely with rural communities and
tribes to ensure that this funding is utilized effectively?
Ms. Raimondo. Thank you, Senator. Yes, I will commit to
working closely with you, your colleagues, rural communities
and tribes, and listening to the rural communities and tribes
around their needs and the challenges. Every American deserves
access to high quality broadband. And I will use the full
resources of NTIA, if confirmed, to lean into that issue and
make sure we move quickly. COVID has shown that broadband can
save lives, and everyone deserves to have it.
Senator Sinema. I agree. You know, one of my top issues is
increasing domestic manufacturing of semiconductors. In recent
years, other countries, including China, have given massive
financial incentives to semiconductor manufacturers to build
factories offshore. This has shrunk the United States share of
the semiconductor industry and domestic manufacturing is not
only an economic concern. The Defense Department has identified
a secure semiconductor supply chain as a National Security
issue. I have been working with a bipartisan group of Senators
to advance the CHIPS Act. Last year, we authorized the Commerce
Department grants for semiconductor manufacturing in the
Defense Authorization Bill, but we have more work to do. Will
you prioritize this issue as Congress works to bring these jobs
back to our country?
Ms. Raimondo. Thank you. Yes, the semiconductor industry is
vital to American economic and National Security. And President
Biden has been clear that we will have a whole of Government
approach to semiconductors. And I plan to play an active role
on his team, as you say, making sure that we have jobs for
economic security, but also National Security issues looming
large in this area. We need a resilient supply chain to be
secure.
Senator Sinema. Agreed. The accuracy of the 2020 census is
very important to my state. Arizona is one of the fastest
growing states in the country and we need to be sure the Census
Bureau data is accurate. The previous Administration harmed the
nonpartisan history of the Census Bureau through attempts to
add a last-minute citizenship question and prohibit the
inclusion of undocumented persons in apportionment data. Also,
the COVID-19 pandemic curtailed the ability of the Census
Bureau to engage with Arizonans.
So the Census Bureau will need to be transparent in
discussing any shortfalls in the data that were collected due
to limited operations. Can you commit to repairing the damage
and improving relationships with historically undercounted
communities today, ensuring accurate and cost-effective counts
in the future?
Ms. Raimondo. Thank you. And you brought this up the other
day as well. I commit to taking the politics out of Census,
relying on expertise, and doing everything I can to rebuild
people's trust in the Census. It needs to be accurate.
Senator Sinema. Thank you. In my last minute, I want to
just briefly talk about NOAA. As you are aware, the
Southwestern United States continues to face an unprecedented
drought, resulting in a wide range of impacts from wildfires to
water shortages. In Arizona, we rely on water not only to brush
our teeth and shower, but also for our economic security. And
we are ready to work with other Western states to ensure we
have a healthy water stead and continue to be responsible
stewards of our water. We have got to use the best available
science to make informed decisions. So we commit to utilizing
and strengthening programs such as NOAA's National Integrated
Drought Information System to help us understand and address
the impacts of this drought.
Ms. Raimondo. I will commit to working with you on that. I
understand how important it is to your state.
Senator Sinema. Thank you so much, Governor, and thanks for
being here today. I appreciate it.
Senator Cantwell. Senator Scott.
STATEMENT OF HON. RICK SCOTT,
U.S. SENATOR FROM FLORIDA
Senator Scott. Thank you. Governor, thank you for the call
we had the other day. We had the opportunity to talk about some
of the issues that Governors deal with. And I think it is
positive when you see a Governor come up and serve in an
Administration. One of the issues that we both dealt with as
Governors is the need for job creation and the need to try to
keep the cost of living as low as we could for families in our
state that don't make significant amounts of money.
I got into public service focusing on the fact that I want
kids like me who grew up in public housing have the same
opportunity to live the dream as everybody else. In--and so
what you are going to be doing as Secretary of Commerce, if
confirmed, will be very significant to helping people across
the country make sure they have the same opportunity I had. In
December of last year, you signed a memorandum with
Connecticut, Massachusetts in D.C. called the Transportation
Climate Initiative, which is going to require suppliers of gas
and diesel fuel to buy credits to sell them as early as 2023.
In both of our states, the median income, just a little
over $30,000 a year so how--who is going to pay for this and
how is it going to impact the people that in both of our states
don't make significant amounts of money? And I don't know if
you track to see how much this is going to cost an individual.
Ms. Raimondo. Thank you for the question. So, I believe
that climate change is probably the greatest threat we face.
And also, there is an opportunity to create jobs as we combat
climate change. 30 plus percent of emissions come from
transportation sector. And so, I allied myself with my fellow
Governors to agree to look into the issue. And that is where we
are. You know, I support that. And I believe long term it will
actually create jobs.
Senator Scott. So, I think all of us are very focused on
climate change and how we are going to make sure that we deal
with that and at the same time, we have got to keep our economy
going. So, with what you have agreed to in the transportation
climate initiative, how will--who will pay for that and how
will a family making--you know, half the families, individuals
in your state make less than $32,000 a year. How will they pay
for that? And have you quantified it?
Ms. Raimondo. We have not yet. The document I signed, by
the way, is bipartisan, Republican and Democratic Governors,
was an intention to work together with our legislators to
develop a transportation climate initiative. So, it is very
early in the process.
Senator Scott. OK. Alright. Thank you. The nominee for
Transportation Secretary, Pete Buttigieg, last week said he was
receptive to increasing the gas tax. And again, this would be
something that would impact the poorest families in our country
significantly. What is your position on that? And do you
think--how would that impact your ability to do your job as
Secretary of Commerce?
Ms. Raimondo. Yes, so I would defer to Congress to make
that decision. Let me say this, I as Governor am deeply in
touch with how much increasing bills affect the average
American family. Having said that, we do need to meet the
climate change challenge and we need funds for improved
infrastructure, better roads, safer roads, safer bridges, and
which also creates jobs. So, I would look to balance those
interests and work as a piece of the President's team.
Senator Scott. The part of the Biden Administration's
proposal was $15 minimum wage, and according to the
Congressional Budget Office, 3.7 million people are going to
lose their jobs as a result of that. And as we all know, as
Secretary of Commerce your job will be to figure out how to
help our small businesses, help them prosper because that is
where most of our job creation is. So, what is your position
with regard to increase in minimum wage and what impact that
will have on our small businesses and our families across the
country?
Ms. Raimondo. Yes, thank you. So, I believe work ought to
pay and you shouldn't live in poverty if you work full time. As
Governor, I have shepherded through several increases in
minimum wage and we have not seen any impacts on unemployment.
And so as with all policies related to wages or commerce or
competitiveness, I will consult broadly with stakeholders, with
industry and take a thoughtful approach. But I know many
businesses also support that and believe that work ought to
pay.
Senator Scott. Thank you, Governor.
Senator Cantwell. Senator Rosen.
STATEMENT OF HON. JACKY ROSEN,
U.S. SENATOR FROM NEVADA
Senator Rosen. Thank you, Madam Chair, Ranking Member
still, I guess, but thank you, Senator Cantwell. And Governor
Raimondo, thank you for being with us today and thank you for
your commitment to serving our Nation. I really appreciated our
productive meeting. I look forward to learning more about your
plans to revive our Nation's economy, to create jobs, and to
ensure that every American has access to broadband no matter
where they live. Amidst a global pandemic that has devastated
our economy, I urge this committee to facilitate a swift
confirmation for Governor Raimondo so she can immediately get
to work for our country. But I would like to begin by talking a
little bit about repealing Solar Terra. The solar industry
employs about 7,000 workers in Nevada, the most solar jobs per
capita in the entire country. If we are to address the climate
crisis and continuing to create those good paying jobs in the
energy sector, we must have a Federal policy that promotes the
affordable deployment of solar projects.
Unfortunately, the previous Administration imposed costly
Section 201 tariffs on imported solar panels and cells. These
misguided tariffs have cost us an estimated 62,000 solar jobs
across the United States. In October, the Trump Administration
doubled down on this failed policy and directed the United
States trade representative to increase the tariffs for 2021.
The right move for the economy and the environment would be for
President Biden to rescind this ill-conceived proclamation
before it takes effect on February 7.
Given the extremely small solar manufacturing industry in
the U.S. and the fact that nearly 90 percent of solar jobs in
the U.S. are non-manufacturing jobs that rely on affordable
solar panels, do you support the current tariffs on imported
solar panels? And will you work with me to address this
pressing issue and of course, time sensitive issue?
Ms. Raimondo. So, thank you, Senator. I understand from
talking to you and your Governor how important these solar jobs
are in your state, and I look forward to learning more about
it. Of course, I will work with you. And I understand it is
time sensitive and challenging and a lot of jobs are at stake.
Senator Rosen. I appreciate that. Usually, we have nothing
but sunshine in Nevada, but I hear today it is snowing on the
Las Vegas Strip. So, but we will have sunshine coming back
soon. But speaking of the Las Vegas Strip, I want to talk about
reviving our entertainment economy. Because in Nevada while our
economy continues to recover from the devastating impact of a
pandemic, we are still facing one of the highest unemployment
rates in the country. Nearly half a million jobs are part of
Nevada's entertainment and tourism ecosystem. Unfortunately,
our once vibrant creative arts community is not just struggling
to stay afloat.
Performers or support staff, they have seen their work come
to virtually a complete halt as venues are unable to open their
doors during the pandemic. I know this is happening across the
country. Theaters are shuttered and elsewhere. Like I said in
the country, film, television, sports events, all of it. All
these productions shut down in an abundance of precaution. So,
as we work to create the conditions for economic growth and
opportunity, what are your plans to specifically help the
creative industries stay afloat and get back to work?
Ms. Raimondo. Yes, thank you. I hear you about Las Vegas.
You mentioned it the other day. My state also depends heavily
on tourism and hospitality, so I see it. I expect to play a
real leadership role with Brand USA and work with you and the
industry and collaborate to find creative ways to get folks
traveling again, going out to dinner and the like again. It is
important. And of course, I support President Biden fully in
his reinvigorated approach to get COVID under control, which
gives people confidence to go out and travel.
Senator Rosen. Thank you. And my last question I think I
will have time for is about NIST and the cybersecurity work
force. The Department's National Institute of Standards and
Technology, NIST, plays an important role in supporting
technological innovations and of course our STEM work force. In
particular, and I am like this acronym, the National Initiative
for Cybersecurity Education, or NICE, is housed within NIST. It
focuses on cybersecurity, education, training and workforce
development. And according to their NICE jobs current heat map,
there are currently over 520,000 cyber job openings in the U.S.
So, in the interest of time, I have a few bills out there.
Cyber Ready Work Force, Junior ROTC, Cybersecurity Workforce,
Framework, we are working on all of this. What are your goals
for supporting our cybersecurity work force? Half a million
jobs open, probably more to be created. We know we have got
lots more needs. Let's get folks into these jobs.
Ms. Raimondo. I could not agree more. I will work with you
on it. I will prioritize it. I have done that as Governor. A
big piece of that puzzle is job training. But I agree there are
many jobs available and we ought to help Americans get them.
Senator Rosen. Well, thank you. I appreciate your
willingness to serve, and I yield.
The Chairman. And thank you, Senator Rosen. Senator Young,
are you there?
STATEMENT OF HON. TODD YOUNG,
U.S. SENATOR FROM INDIANA
Senator Young. I am, indeed, Chairman. Thank you. Governor,
it is so good to be with you again. Enjoyed our conversation
the other day, and I will be following up on that. Once again,
thank you for your willingness to serve and for appearing
before the Committee. We discussed, during our conversation,
the overwhelming geographic concentration of venture capital
investment in three states. And that concerns me. It is
detrimental to the innovation base, especially at a time when
the U.S. Is going toe to toe with countries like China. So, we
need to harness more of that talent across the heartland of
America and around all four corners of our country. That is why
I coauthored the Endless Frontier Act with Senator Schumer. The
bill would bolster U.S. leadership in science and tech
innovation by making $100 billion strategic investment in
emerging technologies.
Additionally, the bill will deliver $10 billion to
establish regional tech hubs across the country to launch
innovative companies, revive American manufacturing, and create
new jobs to reinvigorate our local communities. So, we are
talking here about a technology policy for our country. We have
got a clear plan to implement one. I would ask you, Governor,
do you think the Endless Frontier Act would help expand
entrepreneurship and fuel greater innovation through these
geographic regions, outside the traditional tech hubs that we
have around the country?
Ms. Raimondo. Thank you, Senator. I certainly share your
concern that capital is concentrated in too few areas. By the
way, my state is not one of them. So, I live it and would
absolutely work with you to disperse that. We have talked a lot
today about how to compete with China and we talked about
tariffs and defense. But some of it is offense, which is
investing in American innovation and doing that broadly. And
so, I would be excited to, you know, work with you on that
issue.
Senator Young. It is about offense and we discussed this in
our conversation together. I think I use the phrase that United
States needs to outgrow, out innovate, and outcompete China.
And you agreed with that sentiment. If confirmed, in addition
to perhaps the Endless Frontier Act and being supportive of
that sort of initiative, are there any other steps that you
might take to sort of execute on this mandate of outcompeting
the Chinese, just as we outcompeted the Soviet Union?
Ms. Raimondo. Yes, well, there are many areas, and I will
be brief, but one of the areas of commerce is NIST, which has a
huge role to play in standard setting, and I believe America
needs to lead in the standard setting, especially as it relates
to new technology. I know you care a lot about artificial
intelligence and blockchain. And so, I feel that that is one
way in particular that we could help Americans to compete and
lead and win.
Senator Young. Very good. I have about a minute and a half
left. This is sort of how this works. Not a lot of time. But I
am going to pivot quickly to supply chain. And there has been a
lot of talk about supply chain management and retrenchment of
vulnerable supply chains in conjunction with this pandemic. We
know that we are vulnerable. Ninety-five percent of surgical
masks and 70 percent of respirators were made overseas at the
start of this crisis. Pharmaceuticals and medical equipment
might be the most visible offshore sectors. As we begin to
recover from this crisis, we need to secure these supply
chains, and to maintain long-term investments, we have to
ensure continuous demand for domestic production.
If that is not ensured, no one is going to stand up a
factory to build essential items. This demand can't just be a
one-off spike. So, with that said, sometimes the issue is not a
lack of total demand, but a matching demand with supply,
especially in localized markets spanning across the country.
One strategy could be mapping out and exaggerating demand and
exploring various incentives to support American companies with
moving supply chains. If confirmed, how do you plan to
facilitate reshoring domestic supply chains?
Ms. Raimondo. Thank you. First, I will say it will be a
priority because it will help shore up our National Security
and economic security, and the technical resources of the
Commerce Department are second to none in figuring out the
complexities of how to execute on that.
Senator Young. Well, very good. I will--I know our time has
expired, so I will look forward to working with you on that
important issue, very important to the most manufacturing
intensive state in the country, which is the state of Indiana.
Thank you.
Ms. Raimondo. Thank you.
The Chairman. Thank you very much, Senator Young. And that
concludes our questioning. Governor Raimondo, over the course
of 2 hours and 37 minutes, you have been most patient and most
talented in answering our questions. And I think you have
learned a good bit about this committee during the process. I
do not believe you will be serving as Governor of the state of
Rhode Island for very much longer. And I wish you well. Look
forward to working with you. Senator Cantwell, do you have
anything?
If not, the hearing record will remain open until the end
of this day. Senators are asked to submit any questions for the
record by the close of business today, Tuesday, January 26,
2021. The Committee asks witnesses that upon--the witness, that
upon receipt of any question for the record, you submit your
written answers to the Committee as soon as possible, but no
later than the close of business on Monday, February 1, 2021.
This hearing is now concluded, and once again, we thank
Governor Raimondo.
Ms. Raimondo. Thank you.
[Whereupon, at 12:37 p.m., the hearing was adjourned.]6601
A P P E N D I X
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______
Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Maria Cantwell to
Hon. Gina M. Raimondo
Digital Trade. Digital trade and the free flow of information
across borders is vitally important to the more than 5,000 technology
companies in Washington state and our state's more than $2.8 billion
digital export economy. Nationally, U.S. digital exports were worth
more than half a trillion dollars in 2019, an increase of more than 50
percent over the past decade. In Washington state, software industry
jobs have increased by approximately one-third since 2016, and now
account for around half a million jobs in my state. Unfortunately,
digital trade barriers and restrictions are proliferating in many
countries, which could undermine our Nation's economic recovery and
threaten key trade relationships, including the $1.1 trillion trade
relationship between the U.S. and Europe.
Question 1. If confirmed, will you prioritize digital trade issues
and the continued free flow of digital goods and information across
borders?
Answer. For U.S. companies to compete, they need the ability to--
among other things--access networks, transfer data, and use secure data
centers of their choice. If confirmed, I will pursue all available
avenues to ensuring data flows and cross-border digital trade, whether
that is through trade agreements, the World Trade Organization,
expansion of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Cross Border Privacy
Rules System, or enhancement of the EU-U.S. Privacy Shield Framework.
Question 2. What will you do to ensure that U.S. companies of all
sizes can compete on a level playing field and have access to open
digital markets in other countries?
Answer. Leveling the playing field through robust digital trade
commitments is necessary to expanding trade in goods and services
across all industries. Given the global economy's dependence on the
internet, market-opening commitments are a cornerstone of real economic
wins for U.S. industry. If confirmed, I will ensure that the full
expertise of the Department of Commerce is brought to bear on behalf of
U.S. companies that leverage the digital economy to provide innovative
services, deliver goods, and reduce costs and increase efficiency in
their own operations.
Softwood Lumber. The health of the U.S. lumber industry is
essential to jobs in Washington state and across the country. It
supports the economy by producing lumber and by supplying the U.S.
housing market for local communities. However, enforcement must remain
a priority. In 2019, nearly half of all antidumping and countervailing
duties collected by the U.S. came from Canadian lumber imports. It is
vital that we continue to fully enforce U.S. trade laws.
Question 3. Will you ensure a level playing field for the U.S.
lumber industry by fully enforcing U.S. trade laws against unfairly
traded Canadian lumber imports?
Answer. I understand the importance of the Antidumping and
Countervailing Duties (AD/CVD) orders on imports of softwood lumber
from Canada on the U.S. lumber industry. If I am confirmed, the
Department of Commerce will continue to vigorously enforce U.S. trade
laws, including the AD/CVD orders on imports of softwood lumber from
Canada, to ensure that the American lumber industry, and all U.S.
workers, farmers and businesses are able to compete on a level playing
field and are not harmed by unfair imports from Canada, or any other
U.S. trading partner.
Stakeholder Engagement in Ocean Conservation. The Biden
Administration has placed an emphasis on ``building back better,''
restoring our economy but doing so in a way that is equitable and just,
and by addressing climate change. Meeting all three of these goals is
going to require the tools, resources, and expertise from across
government agencies, including the Department of Commerce and NOAA. The
United States has a particularly strong blue economy, with ocean goods
and services contributing over $373 billion to the Nation's GDP and
supporting over 2.3 million jobs in 2018.
Question 4. Protecting rural jobs that depend on sustainable
fisheries is a priority. What role do you see for NOAA in the design
and implementation of a potential 30x30 strategy in the U.S. EEZ?
Answer. Creating and promoting job growth is important to me. If
confirmed, I look forward to working with you on ensuring that jobs
related to sustainable fisheries are protected. On January 27, 2021,
President Biden issued an Executive Order on Tackling the Climate
Crisis at Home and Abroad. Sec. 216 of this Executive Order calls for
the Secretaries of Interior, Commerce and the Council of Environmental
Quality, in consultation with the Secretary of Agriculture to develop a
report within 90 days of its issuance on the steps to achieve the goal
of conserving at least 30 percent of land and water. The Executive
Order calls on Federal agencies to work with the ``States, local,
Tribal, and territorial governments, agricultural and forest
landowners, fishermen, and other stakeholders.''
Question 5. How will you work to ensure that fishermen and fishing
communities are included in the consideration of a potential 30x30
proposal?
Answer. As noted above, on January 27, 2021, President Biden
released an Executive Order on Tackling the Climate Crisis at Home and
Abroad. Section 216 (c) specifically calls on the Secretary of
Commerce, through NOAA, to work in the first 60 days to collect input
from fishermen, regional ocean councils, scientists and fishery
management council how to make fisheries and protected resources more
resilient to climate change. If confirmed, I look forward to working
with you on this important issue.
Question 6. What opportunities do you see to harness the 30x30 goal
to increase equitable access to these protected areas and bolster
coastal economies where fisheries are managed based on science?
Answer. As the Governor of a coastal state, I recognize the
importance of coastal communities, and the need to ensure equal access
to marine resources so that all communities can benefit. If confirmed,
I will work with NOAA, other Federal agencies and stakeholders to
implement the Executive Order on Tackling the Climate Crisis at Home
and Abroad, including in increasing equitable access and bolstering
coastal communities.
______
Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Amy Klobuchar to
Hon. Gina M. Raimondo
Broadband. I am leading legislation to invest $100 billion in
broadband infrastructure to close the digital divide once and for all.
My bill also establishes an Office of Internet Connectivity and Growth
at the Department's National Telecommunications and Information
Administration to help ensure people in every community have the tools,
support, and technology they need to take advantage of Internet access.
Question 1. President Biden has identified investment in
infrastructure, including broadband infrastructure, as a top priority
for his administration. What are your plans to help expand broadband
access as the Secretary of Commerce?
Answer. If confirmed, I will work with NTIA, which is currently in
the process of standing up the Office of Connectivity and Growth, to
amplify the work of NTIA's BroadbandUSA. Through its BroadbandUSA work,
NTIA serves local, state, and tribal governments, industry and non-
profits seeking to expand broadband connectivity and promote digital
inclusion by providing solution-neutral technical assistance and
convening regional workshops that bring local stakeholders together.
NTIA also leverages its State Broadband Leaders Network (SBLN) which
includes 50 states and three territories.
Question 2. What are your plans to promote digital equity and
inclusion, and will you work with me to help address this need?
Answer. As I stated in my hearing testimony, broadband access is
not a luxury; it's a necessity, providing children access to their
classes, the ill and infirm access via telehealth to their doctor, and
enabling consumers to sign up for the COVID vaccine. If confirmed, I
commit to ensuring that the Department brings the full weight of its
resources to advancing digital equity and inclusion by, for example,
utilizing NTIA's Digital Inclusion Leaders Network (DILN)--a group of
state and local government leaders working to bridge the digital
divide--to serve as a critical resource for leveraging knowledge and
best practices. In addition, NTIA will rely on data from over 20 years
of its Internet Use Survey data to inform policy approaches to closing
the digital divide.
Steel Dumping. Iron ore mining has been a way of life for families
in northern Minnesota, but illegal practices such as steel dumping
unfairly harm our workers. I have long called for tough actions to
address Chinese Steel dumping because our workers deserve to know
everyone is playing by the same rules.
Question 3. What should Congress do to best work with the new
Administration to stand up to unfair trade practices?
Answer. If confirmed as the Secretary of Commerce, I look forward
to working with Congress on addressing unfairly traded imports from
China and other trading partners that distort the market. If confirmed,
it is my intention that the Department of Commerce will continue to
rigorously enforce U.S. trade laws, including the Antidumping and
Countervailing Duties (AD/CVD) laws, to help ensure a level playing
field--not only for the critical U.S. steel sector, but comprehensively
for U.S. workers, farmers, and other businesses injured by unfair
trade.
______
Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Richard Blumenthal to
Hon. Gina M. Raimondo
The North Atlantic right whale. We share a mutual understanding
that commercial and recreational fishing and shipping contributes
significantly to our Nation's economy, but the contributions of marine
species--like the North Atlantic right whale--who inhabit our Federal
waters often take a backseat to industry, particularly in the previous
administration. These species make countless contributions through
tourism, ecosystem services, and carbon capture. Unfortunately, the
North Atlantic right whale is one of the world's most endangered large
whale species, with only about 400 whales remaining.
Question 1. If confirmed, how will you guide the agency to not only
focus on the management of sustainable fisheries and other marine
industries but to encourage the coexistence of these activities with
marine mammal species, such as the critically endangered North Atlantic
right whale, which is facing extinction due to climate change,
entanglement in fishing gear, vessel strikes and outdated management
policies?
Answer. I recognize the importance of shipping and fishing to the
Nation's economy and I appreciate the ecological, cultural, and
economic importance of protected marine mammals such as the North
Atlantic right whale. If confirmed, I would welcome opportunities to
learn more about NOAA's efforts to partner with the fishing community,
the shipping industry, and other interested stakeholders to protect,
conserve, and recover North Atlantic right whales and their habitats
and to work with you and your constituents on this issue.
The 2020 Census. In March 2020, as the 2020 Census was fully
underway, the COVID pandemic impacted the process, causing the Census
Bureau to suspend field operations for over a month. Initially, former
Secretary Ross and Census Bureau Director Steven Dillingham announced
that they would be extending the deadline for self-response and field
data collection and asked Congress to extend the statutory deadlines
for delivery of apportionment and redistricting data by 120 days.
However, in August, the Census Bureau inexplicably reversed course,
shortened the enumeration period, and decided to move forward with the
original statutory deadlines for apportionment and redistricting data,
raising serious concerns that they would not have adequate time to
complete a full, fair, and accurate 2020 census. Further, last month,
the Government Accountability Office testified before a House Oversight
and Reform Committee hearing expressing concern about the risks to 2020
census data quality caused by COVID-19 and related developments.
Question 2. If confirmed, will you commit to protecting the
integrity of the 2020 Census?
Answer. Yes.
Question 3. If confirmed, will you commit to working with the
Commerce Committee to ensure that the Census Bureau has all necessary
resources to ensure a full, fair, and accurate count is represented?
Answer. Yes.
Question 4. In May 2020, a career Census Bureau staffer expressed
concern that the Census would not be able to meet its statutory
deadlines. If confirmed, will you remain transparent and open in your
communication with the Committee to ensure that they Census Bureau is
meeting its constitutional and statutory responsibilities?
Answer. Yes.
______
Response to Written Question Submitted by Hon. Edward Markey to
Hon. Gina M. Raimondo
Restricting the 3D Printing of Guns. In January 2020, the Commerce
and State Departments finalized rules that shift jurisdiction over
small arms exports--including technical data, such as files for the 3D
printing of guns--from State to Commerce. A coalition of state
attorneys general obtained an injunction that maintains State
Department oversight over technical data. But if a pending court
decision vacates that injunction, the Commerce Department will then
have jurisdiction over the posting of files for the 3D printing of
guns.
Question. What actions would you like to see the Commerce
Department take to ensure that the posting and export of files for the
3D printing of guns continues to be restricted?
Answer. If the pending court decision vacates the injunction, if
confirmed, I will work with the White House and members of Congress,
including your office, to discuss ways of implementing meaningful
oversight similar to State Department oversight that occurred before
the rule change.
______
Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Gary Peters to
Hon. Gina M. Raimondo
Question 1. For Michiganders, the Great Lakes are not just a
precious environmental treasure, they're an economic driver, and they
are literally part of our DNA. I enjoyed our discussion of NOAA's
beautiful Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Michigan is also the
proud home of the Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory,
several weather forecasting stations, and other important NOAA
resources that help support the communities and business throughout the
region. If confirmed as Secretary, will you commit to working with me
to support and grow NOAA's capacity to provide services within the
Great Lakes?
Answer. I recognize the importance of the Great Lakes to our
economy and I know that NOAA provides data, tools, and services that
support communities surrounding the Great Lakes, just as they do in
Rhode Island. If confirmed, I would look forward to learning more about
NOAA's work in the Great Lakes region and working with you to support
the services they provide to you and your constituents.
Question 2. The President announced yesterday a new executive order
directed across the entire Federal government to ensure that when
taxpayer dollars are used, they are not used to buy foreign goods but
rather are supporting domestic manufacturers and domestic iron and
steel. I was part of a bipartisan group of Senators that introduced the
Build America, Buy America Act (led by Senators Brown and Braun) in the
last Congress, which called on many of the items in the President's
executive order. If confirmed as Secretary, will you commit to working
with me and the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee--
where I will serve as chairman--to help make permanent these provisions
to strengthen Buy America requirements that create jobs and support our
domestic manufacturing base?
Answer. Yes, if confirmed, I will support efforts to help make
permanent provisions to strengthen Buy America requirements where tax
dollars are spent buying U.S. made goods. As you note, President Biden
has made clear his support for Buy America provisions through the
issuance of Executive Order 14005. Within the Department of Commerce,
the Economic Development Administration has a long history of
supporting Buy America requirements in its infrastructure grants.
Question 3. KLA, one of the major US-based semiconductor equipment
manufacturers is in the process of opening a second U.S. headquarters
in Michigan, creating over 600 high-tech jobs in the Midwest. One
challenge semiconductor manufacturers like KLA face has been export
restrictions that make it difficult to compete with competitors in
Korea, Japan, and Europe. I support efforts to be tough on China so I
hope we can work together to strengthen the restrictions on China while
ensuring our companies can compete globally. Will you commit to working
with me on this?
Answer. If confirmed as Secretary of Commerce, I will commit to
working with you on this issue. I will ensure that the Department
conducts a full analysis of any changes in export control requirements
before implementation.
Question 4. The Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs
Committee, where I am the incoming Chairman, has jurisdiction over the
Census Bureau. Will you commit to working with the Committee and with
me to return the Census Bureau to the hands of experts and de-
politicize it; Finish the 2020 Census as accurately as possible; Begin
preparing for a more inclusive 2030 Census; and continue the critical
surveys the Bureau conducts every year?
Answer. Yes.
Question 5. Michigan has been ranked the 2nd best state for
aerospace manufacturing. The University of Michigan has one of the best
space and space-related engineering programs in the country, which has
helped pioneer the development of small satellites that are rapidly
being deployed in outer space. I am joining Senator Wicker in
Coauthoring the SPACE Act, which would authorize the Office of
Commercial Space within the Department of Commerce. I have also been in
touch with Commerce Department staff about the development of a space
commodities exchange--something the Space Force has been interested in
as well--to help provide certainty to financial markets backing new
commercial space endeavors, as well as to our military and civilian
space activities. Will you have staff look into this issue and provide
timely feedback on the merits of developing a space commodities
exchange from the perspective of the Office of Space Commerce?
Answer. Thank you for your support of NOAA's Office of Space
Commerce. If confirmed, I will work with NOAA to look into the issue of
a space commodities exchange and the merits of developing such an
exchange.
Question 6. Space Weather has the potential to impact
infrastructure on Earth and severely disrupt the economy. The insurance
industry has cited estimates of a catastrophic space weather event as
high as 10 percent in the next 10 years. An estimate by Lloyds of
London found that a worst-case scenario space weather event could cost
up to $2.6 trillion. Impacts include outages or blackouts of electric
utilities, disrupting GPS and communication networks, and forcing
airlines to reroute air traffic. NOAA operates a number of space
weather instruments. I authored the bipartisan PROSWIFT Act, which
tasks NOAA with coordinating across Federal agencies to help improve
our understanding of and mitigate this threat. At the appropriate time
in the future, will you please provide an update on the implementation
of this law?
Answer. Thank you for your support of NOAA and its space weather
mission. If confirmed, I will work with NOAA to provide you an update
on the Department's implementation of the PROSWIFT Act.
Question 7. The COVID 19 pandemic has made it even clearer that
broadband deployment is necessary to ensure the success of all American
both in urban and rural areas. The President has called for major
investments in broadband infrastructure. Last Congress, I introduced
the Broadband Infrastructure Finance Innovation Act which establishes a
financing program to make available loans, loan guarantees, and lines
of credit for the construction and deployment of broadband
infrastructure at NTIA. If confirmed as Secretary, will you commit to
working with me and the Committee to accelerate broadband
infrastructure deployment?
Answer. Yes, if confirmed, I will work to ensure that the
Department will focus on bringing all of its resources to bear to
accelerate broadband infrastructure deployment. Commerce's NTIA is
uniquely qualified to help in expanding both broadband infrastructure
to areas of unmet need as well as supporting communities with their
digital equity and inclusion needs.
Question 8. In the last Congress, I joined a bipartisan group of
senators pushing for a massive investment in scientific research and
technology development--the Endless Frontiers Act. I know you've
commented on the need to ``Go big'' as we try to build our way back out
of the pandemic. Can you comment on the importance of investing in
basic research like this?
Answer. Basic scientific research is imperative to set the long-
term groundwork for technology development and later commercial
application. President Biden has charged the Office of Science and
Technology Policy to examine how we as a nation support research and
development to ensure that the U.S. remains competitive globally in key
areas of technology (A.I., quantum, communications, etc.). With bureaus
like NIST having a key role to play in many of the emerging technology
areas identified in the Endless Frontier Act, if confirmed, I look
forward to working with the White House and Congress to ensure that our
programs are positioned to support the advanced research necessary to
fight the pandemic, ensure our competitive position, combat climate
change, and build back our economy.
______
Response to Written Question Submitted by Hon. Tammy Baldwin to
Hon. Gina M. Raimondo
Question. The Economic Census is intended to serve ``as the
foundation for the measurement of U.S. businesses and their economic
impact.'' One in three Americans is a member-owner of at least one
cooperative business, and to capture the economic impact of
cooperatives, the Census Bureau rightfully included a question on the
2017 survey asking respondents if the business identifies as a
cooperative. Unfortunately, the Bureau has not published any data on
these responses, nor made the data available to cooperative researchers
and economists. Will you commit to releasing Economic Census data on
cooperatives and ensure that the Economic Census continues to measure
the economic impact of cooperative businesses in future surveys?
Answer. If confirmed, I look forward to working with you and the
Census Bureau to ensure cooperative businesses are integrated into
future surveys.
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Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Tammy Duckworth to
Hon. Gina M. Raimondo
Question 1. As part of the 2021 NDAA, Congress authorized a
National Semiconductor Technology Center (NSTC) housed within the U.S.
Department of Commerce, with the goal of furthering research and
development into this crucial technology and strengthening our domestic
supply. If confirmed, how will you prioritize funding for research in
this and other critical technologies, and do you agree that the
Department should solicit further funding for research and development
of critical technologies like semiconductors?
Answer. Cutting-edge semiconductor technology is crucial to both
U.S. national and economic security. If confirmed, I will make every
effort to prioritize R&D that can help address the advancement of
semiconductor technology, overcome barriers to its manufacture and
security, including models like the NSTC that bring together
stakeholders from across government and industry. I look forward to
working with Congress and the White House on ways to secure further
funding for the important efforts laid out in the NDAA.
Question 2. From a global competitiveness standpoint, how vital is
it that the U.S. grow its domestic manufacturing base in technologies
like semiconductors? And what are your plans to implement and promote
the new semiconductor program at the Department of Commerce that
Congress authorized with the FY 2021 NDAA?
Answer. A vibrant domestic semiconductor manufacturing capability
is an important component of the overall competitive position of the
U.S. If confirmed, I plan to work diligently to coordinate efforts
between Department of Defense, the Department of Energy, the Department
of Homeland Security, the National Science Foundation, and the
Department of Commerce to strengthen the U.S. semiconductor industry. I
look forward to working with Congress on appropriations to support the
efforts outlined in the NDAA.
Question 3. Within the Department of Commerce, what position serves
as the current point person for the Secretary in evaluating the breadth
of the Department's response to trade enforcement and anti-
competitiveness concerns? And how does that individual ensure that
small businesses--especially those without a trade association or
lobbyists--are able to quickly and easily flag concerns about
potentially unfair trade practices so that the Department may analyze
the situation and respond swiftly?
Answer. I believe in leveling the playing field for small
businesses when it comes to trade. If confirmed, I look forward to
working to ensure all U.S. companies, including small and medium-sized
companies, benefit from our trade agreements.
It is my understanding that Commerce offers a number of tools to
engage with the public to ensure compliance with trade agreements. It
maintains a hotline (202-482-1191) and website (https://tcc.export.gov)
to report complaints. The ITA website (https://www.trade.gov/trade-
agreements-compliance) includes videos and infographics on trade
barriers so companies can quickly self-assess if they are facing a
trade barrier as the result of foreign government non-compliance.
Finally, compliance officers work closely with more than 100 U.S.
Export Assistance Centers that assist small and medium-sized exporters
located throughout the United States.
In addition, The Department of Commerce provides counseling on the
remedies available under the Antidumping and Countervailing Duties (AD/
CVD) laws through its AD/CVD petition counseling office to ensure that
all U.S. companies, including small and medium-sized companies,
understand and have access to the applicable laws. The office can be
reached through a hotline (202-482-1255) and dedicated e-mail address
([email protected]). Additional information can also be
found through the petition counseling website at https://www.trade.gov/
ec-petition-counseling.
Question 4. In confirmed, how would you survey and analyze the
current policies and procedures within the Economic Development
Administration to ensure that it is fully combatting racial and
economic justice as part of its mission?
Answer. EDA's mission to empower distressed communities though
revitalization and diversification of local economies is consistent
with the promotion of racial and economic justice. My understanding is
that EDA looks forward to working with the Administration pursuant to
President Biden's Executive Order 13985 to identify and continue to
embed equitable principles and approaches across the bureau.
Additionally, EDA will review its policies and actions to ensure they
do not create barriers to equal participation by eligible institutions
seeking grants from EDA.
______
Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Kyrsten Sinema to
Hon. Gina M. Raimondo
Semiconductor Manufacturing Grants. As we discussed at your
hearing, semiconductors play a crucial role in our economic and
national security. The 2021 defense authorization law included
important provisions to incentivize domestic semiconductor
manufacturing and reverse the decline in American semiconductor
manufacturing jobs.
Question 1. Will you commit to depoliticize the grant process and
to establish a procedure that reviews applications and distributes
grants based on the benefits to domestic semiconductor manufacturing
and not based on politics or the location of the project?
Answer. If confirmed, I commit to ensuring that DOC grants
processes are not politicized and that they utilize procedures that are
fair, competitive, transparent, and oriented to benefit domestic
semiconductor manufacturing.
Semiconductor Research. In addition to the grants to expand
domestic manufacturing of semiconductors, the 2021 National Defense
Authorization Act calls on the Department to establish a National
Semiconductor Technology Center (NSTC). The NSTC is intended to conduct
research, development and prototyping to maintain U.S. leadership in
this critical technology.
Question 2. What role do you envision your Department playing in
funding research in critical technologies, such as semiconductors?
Answer. NIST currently has a number of research efforts directly
aligned with the needs of the semiconductor industry and other critical
technology areas, such as artificial intelligence, quantum science, and
advanced communications. If confirmed, I look forward to working with
Congress to support and grow these ongoing efforts at NIST as well as
other activities across the Department that can help advance U.S.
competitiveness in key technology areas, and that contribute to the
establishment of a robust domestic semiconductor ecosystem.
Broadband Interagency Coordination. As we discussed at your
hearing, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration
(NTIA) can play a major role in expanding broadband throughout Arizona.
In addition to the programs designed to expand access into rural and
tribal areas of Arizona, the COVID relief bill also sets up a one-stop
shop at NTIA to coordinate broadband development opportunities across
the executive branch.
Question 3. Will you commit to quickly establish that office and
help state and local governments identify all the opportunities for
Federal assistance for broadband deployment?
Answer. If confirmed, I commit to promptly establishing the new
office and to help state and local governments identify all the
opportunities for Federal assistance for broadband deployment. It is my
understanding that NTIA has begun the process of setting up the Office
of Internet Connectivity and Growth and to implement the new
obligations relative to tracking Federal dollars, streamlining
application processes, and coordinating among Federal agencies relative
to broadband funding.
Cross Border Trade. Cross border trade is an economic driver of
Arizona's economy. A University of Arizona study shows that Mexican
tomato imports support 33,000 U.S. jobs. Agribusiness supply chains
derived from these imported tomatoes account for nearly $3 billion in
U.S. gross domestic product. With trade agreements in place, such as
USMCA, the North America supply chain provides consumers with the
opportunity for choice and affordable produce while supporting our
domestic growers. USTR has recently initiated a number of trade
investigations having to do with imported produce, specifically related
to seasonality concerns. These investigations destabilize the supply
chain and open the door to potential damaging retaliations from our
trade partners. That's why I joined with Senator Moran and other
members of Congress to send a letter to USTR, urging them to consider
the potential impacts when making these decisions.
Question 4. In your opinion, how do we continue to foster a strong
trade supply chain while not disrupting the USMCA and ensuring our
domestic growers are supported and consumers are given affordable
choices throughout the year?
Answer. If confirmed, I will ensure that Commerce continues its
outreach with growers of seasonal and perishable fruits and vegetables
to enhance their understanding of applicable trade remedy laws and
processes and will continue to monitor foreign subsidy practices that
have a direct impact on U.S. producers of seasonal and perishable
fruits and vegetables.
Commercial Space. The commercial space industry is growing at an
incredible speed--creating jobs, innovating, and fostering public-
private partnerships across the country. Yuma, Arizona is currently
going through the process to establish a spaceport that would have the
ability to launch mini and nano satellites. If the spaceport moves
forward, it will grow Yuma's economy and help the United States remain
a leader in space.
Question 5. As the commercial space economy expands and more
technology is sent into space, how will you work with entities to
ensure the National Airspace System is able to support additional
launch and reentry points as well as increased traffic?
Answer. I understand the importance in providing space situational
awareness and traffic management to ensure safe and productive
development in the space economy. If confirmed, I look forward to
working with NOAA, other Federal agencies, and the Congress on this
important topic.
Space Traffic Management. Given the exponential growth in numbers
of satellites and the increasing amount of debris in orbit, the Office
of Space Commerce is charged with protecting the space based services
that are critical to our Nation's infrastructure, sustaining U.S. space
sector leadership globally, and international space cooperation. Last
year Congress provided increased funding for the Office of Space
Commerce and direction to initiate a Space Traffic Management (STM)
pilot program in collaboration with industry.
Question 6. What are your thoughts on the importance of Space
Traffic Management?
Answer. I understand that successful and collaborative space
traffic management will be essential if the U.S. and the world are to
realize the potential benefits of a healthy and growing space economy.
If confirmed, I look forward to working with NOAA, other Federal
agencies, and the Congress on this important topic.
Privacy Shield. In July of 2020, the European Court of Justice
struck down the Privacy Shield program, invalidating a critical
mechanism for transferring personal data to the United States from the
European Union. This has raised significant concerns about the
continued viability of trans-Atlantic data flows, which are estimated
to generate more than $7 trillion in economic activity.
Question 7. As Secretary of Commerce, will you support and
prioritize the on-going negotiations to replace the Privacy Shield
program with the goal of ensuring the continued viability of trans-
Atlantic data flows?
Answer. If confirmed, one of my top priorities as Commerce
Secretary will be to quickly conclude an enhanced Privacy Shield
framework that fully addresses the European Court of Justice's concerns
and enables the EU-U.S. transfers of personal data that underpin the
$7.1 trillion transatlantic economy. I will work closely with my
counterparts in the U.S. government, in particular the Office of the
Director of National Intelligence, the Department of Justice, and the
Department of State, in order to ensure that these whole of government
negotiations are successful and the 5,400+ Privacy Shield participants,
more than 70 percent of whom were small and medium enterprises, can
efficiently and effectively do business with Europe once again on firm
ground.
Bioscience and IP Rights. In Arizona, our bioscience and biotech
industries fuel new jobs, and delivering life-changing innovations.
We've worked hard in Arizona to leverage smart public sector
investments to attract next generation start-ups, as well as global
companies looking to build out manufacturing and research facilities.
Arizona inventors have been awarded more than 2,000 bioscience-related
patents since 2016. Never have the benefits of strong IP been as
relevant as they are today. We have seen how pharmaceutical researchers
have worked so quickly to develop COVID vaccines and therapeutics, and
the importance of going after stolen IP and fraudulent medical
products.
Question 8. In order to continue driving discovery and to maintain
the global competitiveness of American and Arizonan companies, how will
the Commerce Department use trade enforcement tools to create a level
playing field and protect millions of American jobs?
Answer. If confirmed, I will work with the Congress to protect U.S.
intellectual property. The Department will address the challenge of
protecting U.S. intellectual property from theft and unfair competition
by helping our innovators and creators, providing information on how to
obtain protection, maintaining high standards for protection in any
future trade agreements, using tools at the Department's disposal to
ensure our trading partners abide by their international commitments,
including those respecting IP protection and enforcement, and
participating and defending U.S. intellectual property interests in
international forums and standard setting processes.
______
Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Jacky Rosen to
Hon. Gina M. Raimondo
Question 1. The ability to transfer data across international
borders is crucial to a broad range of companies, of all sizes and
industries, and to consumers who rely on global services to help them
work, learn, and connect with others from home. Can you commit to
making it a priority to help ensure that companies can continue to
transfer data across international borders and to working with your
European counterparts to reach a new agreement to support data
transfers from the EU to the US?
Answer. If confirmed, one of my top priorities as Commerce
Secretary will be to quickly conclude an enhanced Privacy Shield
framework that fully addresses the European Court of Justice's concerns
and enables the EU-U.S. transfers of personal data that underpin the
$7.1 trillion transatlantic economy. I will work closely with my
counterparts in the U.S. government, in particular the Office of the
Director of National Intelligence, the Department of Justice, and the
Department of State, in order to ensure that these whole of government
negotiations are successful and the 5,400+ Privacy Shield participants,
more than 70 percent of whom were small and medium enterprises, can
efficiently and effectively do business with Europe once again on firm
ground.
Question 2. With a majority of Americans working remotely due to
COVID-19, will you commit to strengthening cybersecurity workforce
capabilities to secure and defend information infrastructure?
Answer. Yes. If confirmed, I commit to strengthening our
cybersecurity workforce capabilities. I am aware of NIST's recently
revised Workforce Framework for Cybersecurity and the output of the
National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education, which NIST manages. I
look forward to working with NIST and the Department to continue
improving our Nation's cyber workforce.
______
Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Roger Wicker to
Hon. Gina M. Raimondo
Question 1. Gov. Raimondo, supply chain security is a growing
challenge for the business community and the Federal government needs
to coordinate its efforts and work with the private sector to protect
our interests. Will you commit to reviewing the Department of
Commerce's recently issued Information and Communications Technology
and Services (ICTS) Supply Chain interim final rule to ensure it is
reasonable and is part of a coordinated Federal strategy to secure the
supply chain? Yes or no?
Answer. With experience in both the private and public sector, I
know how critical it is to protect the interest of all Americans,
consumers and constituents. If confirmed, I will work with the
professionals at the Department and conduct a thorough review of the
recently issued ICTS Supply Chain interim final rule as well as the
Department's other supply chain activities.
Question 2. The Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021, which
included COVID-19 stimulus and relief funding, included $1.3 billion
for broadband grants--$1 billion for Tribal areas and $300 million for
broadband deployment in unserved areas. Those grants will be
administered by the Department of Commerce's National
Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA). The purpose
of this question is to ensure that those broadband resources are
targeted to unserved areas. The Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021
included $1.3 billion for broadband grants--$1 billion for Tribal areas
and $300 million for broadband deployment in unserved areas. Those
grants will be administered by the Department of Commerce's National
Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA). If confirmed,
will you commit to ensure that those broadband resources are targeted
to unserved areas and are not used to overbuild areas that already have
broadband service from a private sector provider or are served by a
project funded by another agency? Yes or no?
Answer. Yes, if confirmed, I will work with the NTIA to implement
broadband resources pursuant to the language set forth in the
Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021.
Question 3. Spectrum is critical for wireless innovation, closing
the digital divide, and winning the race to 5G. The United States is
one of the only countries in the world that has a bifurcated system for
managing spectrum--the Federal Communications Commission manages non-
Federal, commercial spectrum and NTIA manages the Federal government's
use of spectrum. Historically, all Federal agencies would work through
NTIA to represent its spectrum needs before the FCC. Spectrum is
critical for wireless innovation, closing the digital divide, and
winning the race to 5G. The Department of Commerce's National
Telecommunications and Information Administration's management of the
efficient use of Federal spectrum is key to achieving each of these
goals. If confirmed, will you work with NTIA to ensure it is the
voice--and not other agencies--representing the Executive Branch's
position on Federal spectrum matters? Yes or no?
Answer. NTIA is the critical voice of the Executive Branch on
Federal spectrum matters, and, if confirmed, I will affirmatively work
to ensure this is so.
Question 4. Improving our Nation's cybersecurity requires working
closely with industry to develop and adopt best cybersecurity
practices. The National Institute of Standards and Technology, or NIST,
has a long track record of helping the public and private sectors
improve cybersecurity. Going forward, it is important to take into
account the work that NIST has undertaken on these issues as the
Executive Branch further develops and refines its cybersecurity
strategy. How would you advance the Department of Commerce's role in
strengthening our Nation's cybersecurity, and how would it facilitate
developing best practices and building secure systems?
Answer. Our nation's cybersecurity is of paramount importance, and
if confirmed I look forward to working with NIST, the Department of
Commerce's lead agency on cybersecurity issues, to help advance our
national cybersecurity posture. If confirmed, my plan is to ensure the
Department will continue to build on NIST's proven record and
capability of research and collaboration with the private sector,
academia, standards development organizations, other government
agencies, and national and international stakeholders, in order to
deliver the most up-to-date cybersecurity standards and guidance.
Question 5. The ``space economy'' is expected to grow from $350
billion to nearly $1 trillion by 2040. A tremendous opportunity exists
for American space companies to capitalize on growth in a variety of
sectors such as space launch, communications, on-orbit servicing,
remote sensing, research and development, and even tourism. If
confirmed, I hope you will support the Office of Space Commerce (OSC).
What is your understanding of the roles and missions of the Office
of Space Commerce? Do you believe that the OSC can play an important
role in fostering American economic leadership and opportunities in
space?
Would you consider organizational change within the Department to
ensure that OSC is properly prioritized and resourced?
Answer. I understand that NOAA and the Office of Space Commerce
(OSC) play a key role in working with the commercial space industry. If
confirmed, I look forward to learning more about the Office of Space
Commerce and to working with Congress to ensure that it is properly
resourced and can continue to serve this important function.
Question 6. Today, over 2,000 active satellites serve functions
that underpin much of our modern digital economy and enable the
technology we so often take for granted. But those satellites, as well
as astronauts aboard the International Space Station, are threatened by
hundreds of thousands of pieces of ``junk'' or space debris. Some of
that debris is large enough to track with radar telescopes, but most of
it is not.
With the space domain increasingly congested, opportunities for
collisions, spectrum interference, and other ``traffic management''
challenges have likewise increased. In light of this, the National
Space Council announced Space Policy Directive 3 in June of 2018, which
designated the Department of Commerce as the lead civil agency for
space situational awareness and notification of satellite operators of
potential conjunctions or collisions--functions previously carried out
by the Department of Defense.
Further examination of the issue by this Committee and a study
conducted by the National Academy of Public Administration affirmed
that conclusion, and resulted in Senator Cantwell, Senator Sinema, and
I introducing the SPACE Act of 2020. That legislation would transfer
civil SSA and STM authorities from the Department of Defense to the
Department of Commerce and establish a center of excellence for SSA and
STM research.
Do you agree that congestion in space requires urgent U.S.
Government action to protect the space environment through better space
situational awareness and traffic management?
Senator Cantwell and I plan to reintroduce the SPACE Act soon. Will
you review that legislation and work with us to protect the space
environment?
Will you consult with Congress before advocating for any change to
SPD-3?
Answer. I understand the importance in providing space situational
awareness and traffic management to ensure safe and productive
development in the space economy. If confirmed, I look forward to
working with you as you develop legislation on this important topic.
Question 7. I introduced and passed the bipartisan Modern Fish Act
to improve the management of recreational fisheries by incorporating
the best available science. In the Gulf of Mexico, states like
Mississippi have invested significant time and money to develop a more
accurate understanding of how much recreational fishermen harvest. NOAA
is rejecting the high quality state data, and instead the agency is
prioritizing the less accurate Federal data from the Marine
Recreational Information Program. This could unfairly decrease
Mississippi's share of the Red Snapper fishery by 60 percent in 2021.
Will you work with me to ensure Mississippi is not unfairly punished by
directing Federal fishery managers to work with the states and use the
more accurate and timely state fishery data in the Gulf recreational
red snapper fishery?
Answer. As Governor of the Ocean State, I recognize that saltwater
recreational fishing is an integral part of American coastal life,
communities, and economies. I also understand the importance of stock
assessment data and the need for it to be grounded in the best
available science. If confirmed, I would commit to learning more about
NOAA's Marine Recreational Information Program and to working with you
and NOAA on this issue as the program pertains to Gulf of Mexico
fisheries.
Question 8. Regional Ocean Partnerships are made up of coastal
states and promote the effective stewardship of our oceans and coasts
by giving those states a strong voice. Last Congress, Senator Cantwell
and I introduced the Regional Ocean Partnership Act to codify the
existing regional ocean partnerships. Do you commit to working with me
to ensure the states have a strong voice in the stewardship of their
oceans and coasts? Additionally, as a Governor of a coastal state, do
you see benefits to state partnerships for taking care of our marine
resources and promoting the blue economy?
Answer. As a Governor, I recognize the need for states and tribal
governments to have a strong voice in the shared stewardship of our
Nation's coasts and oceans. NOAA coordinates closely on the management,
resilience, and restoration of ocean and coastal areas through
collaborative regional efforts led by Regional Ocean Partnerships.
These partnerships have enabled my state of Rhode Island and other
states to successfully guide and manage appropriate development and
conservation within our coastal and marine resources. If confirmed, I
will work with NOAA to strengthen our partnerships with States and
tribal governments to address coastal and marine issues across our
shared ocean resources.
Question 9. Southern Mississippi and the University of Rhode Island
both play important roles in supporting NOAA's work on this issue.
Uncrewed maritime systems are a highly cost-effective way for NOAA to
increase the number of observations it collects. Will you work with me
to increase NOAA's use of uncrewed maritime systems? Additionally, can
you talk about the synergies you saw in Rhode Island when NOAA
leveraged the strength of its university partners?
Answer. I recognize the importance of the safe, efficient, and
cost-effective operation of uncrewed systems, which NOAA uses to
collect high-quality environmental data for the agency's science,
products and services. Rhode Island is a nexus for the industrial
revolution in autonomous technologies and the University of Rhode
Island (URI) is a leader in ocean exploration. If confirmed, I look
forward to working with you and other partners to advance modern ocean
technology and increase NOAA's use of uncrewed maritime systems.
Question 10. Governor Raimondo, one of the most immediate tasks for
the incoming Administration is to ensure global telecommunications
networks are safe and secure, especially with 5G networks coming
online. What is your view on how the Administration should go about
exploring all options for the development and deployment of secure
global telecommunications networks?
Answer. Given our increased reliance on broadband due to the COVID-
19 pandemic, our need for safe and secure domestic and global
telecommunications networks for education, healthcare and business is
critical. The work to enhance the security of communications networks
at home and abroad will require a range of efforts from across the U.S.
government, working in close collaboration with our international and
industry partners.
______
Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. John Thune to
Hon. Gina M. Raimondo
Question 1. Global copyright theft undercuts the U.S. economic
recovery, the global competitiveness agenda, and the high-paying jobs
and vendors that the copyright industries support. Small businesses in
the copyright industries heavily rely on copyright protection and
enforcement to create, finance and grow. What will you do to ensure
that our trading partners effectively protect and enforce copyright?
Answer. If I am confirmed, I will support robust Intellectual
Property (IP) protection and enforcement frameworks in our Free Trade
Agreements and our continued engagement in international organizations,
including the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and the
Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) to ensure
that our trading partners can effectively protect and enforce
copyright.
In addition, I will leverage the Department of Commerce's extensive
expertise and resources, including the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
and the International Trade Administration, to promote the protection
and enforcement of copyright around the world by providing training and
technical advice to foreign trading partners.
Furthermore, I will support continued outreach and assistance to
U.S. creators and copyright owners, including small businesses, in the
protection and licensing of U.S. movies, music, literature, software,
and other creative works, including through our network of Intellectual
Property Attaches in embassies, consulates, and missions around the
world.
Question 2. Advanced communication systems such as 5G and Wi-Fi 6
are critical to facilitating U.S. competitiveness in a wide variety of
industries. How do you see the Department of Commerce and NTIA working
to facilitate and promote 5G?
Answer. If confirmed, I will ensure the full technical expertise of
the Department and NTIA is available to lead U.S. government efforts to
help ensure that 5G standards are state-of-the-art, fit-for-purpose,
and developed through open, bottom-up, industry-led, consensus-based
processes free of the influence of state-actors or their proxies.
Question 3. The Department of Commerce's own data shows that in
U.S. firms that export goods and services, sales grow faster, more jobs
are created, and employees earn more than in non-exporting firms. An
ever-growing number of these exporters are small businesses.
Unfortunately, even in the countries where we have free trade
agreements, our companies continue to face trade barriers such as
inadequate intellectual property protections, data localization rules,
and price controls that violate these agreements. Much of the
responsibility of enforcing these agreements and protecting U.S.
businesses falls to the Department of Commerce. Governor Raimondo, can
you commit that you will be as vigilant in the execution of the
responsibility of holding our trading partners to account on behalf of
our U.S. exporters as the Department will be in protecting our
businesses from imports that violate our laws and trade agreements?
Answer. If confirmed, Commerce will continue to level the playing
for American workers and businesses. The Department of Commerce is
committed to holding our trading partners accountable when they violate
our laws and trade agreements by proactively monitoring, identifying
and resolving trade barriers. I commit to working with allies and
likeminded trading partners to promote policies that support U.S.
exports and encourage foreign investment into the United States. I also
commit to rigorously enforce the U.S. trade remedy laws to address
unfair dumping and subsidization of imports from foreign trading
partners that injure the domestic industry.
Question 4. As you know, the United States continues to face
growing cybersecurity threats. Last year, NTIA and other Federal
agencies were breached in a supply-chain attack by malicious hackers.
An attack at this scale has an enormous effect on our economy and
national security. It provides our adversaries with unauthorized access
to sensitive data, intellectual property, and critical infrastructure.
If confirmed, how would the Department respond to this economic
espionage and work with industry to combat ongoing cyber threats?
Answer. If confirmed, I will ensure that the Department continues
to play an active role in helping industry and government agencies
better defend against a range of cyber threats by working with experts
and stakeholders to constantly advance the collective tools, standards,
and expectations in the marketplace.
Question 5. A week and a half ago marked the one-year anniversary
of the U.S.-China Phase 1 trade deal. China committed to purchasing a
significant amount of U.S. exports--an additional $200 billion of U.S.
products over a two-year period. How does the Commerce Department plan
to respond to China if it does not meet its Phase 1 commitments,
particularly the purchase of U.S. exports?
Answer. China's actions toward U.S. businesses are coercive and
abusive and if confirmed, my plan is to ensure the Department of
Commerce (Commerce) continues supporting U.S. exports, including those
purchases agreed upon by China as part of the U.S.-China Phase 1 trade
deal. Commerce will continue to work with USTR to hold China
accountable and use our full tool kit, including export promotion
resources of the Foreign Commercial Service.
Question 6. With agriculture being South Dakota's biggest industry,
my state relies on reliable and accurate weather prediction, especially
when it comes to drought and flood risk monitoring. For that reason, I
requested that the most recent WRDA bill include a provision to build
out a network of weather monitoring stations across the Upper Missouri
River Basin and require NOAA to acquire the data and develop a pilot
program to improve existing climate and forecasting models with the new
data. If confirmed, can you commit to working with me to stand up this
important pilot program at NOAA, which will greatly benefit flood
control and drought monitoring for much of the Great Plains region?
Answer. I recognize the importance weather has on industries, like
agriculture, to the economy of South Dakota and our Nation. If
confirmed, I will ensure that NOAA leads with data and sound science. I
look forward to working with you on this program, and to ensuring that
NOAA and its National Weather Service are the gold standard for
weather, water, and climate forecasting.
______
Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Roy Blunt to
Hon. Gina M. Raimondo
Question 1. Do you intend to conduct a review of the steel and
aluminum tariffs implemented under section 232 of the Trade Expansion
Act of 1962
a. Will the Department study the impact on downstream industries
that consume goods impacted by the tariffs, specifically the decisions
of companies to build facilities and production capacity in the United
States?
b. Will the Department make any changes to the tariff exclusion
request process? What will the Department do to avoid backlogs and
delays?
c. Will the Department consider giving exclusions to industries
that have no impact on national security, such as food and beverage
processing or consumer automobiles?
Answer. If confirmed as Secretary, I plan to review any work the
Department of Commerce (Commerce) has already done on the impact of the
tariffs and will ensure that any review is up to date. It is my
understanding that the Commerce Department is continually reviewing the
process and scope of the 232 Exclusions Process to increase its
efficiency and transparency.
Question 2. How will the Department of Commerce protect American
workers and main street businesses against China's unfair trading
practices? How will the Department work with our other trading partners
in the region to facilitate trade and counter China's influence?
Answer. If confirmed, I am committed to addressing unfair and
abusive trading practices by China and other nations through its
network of trade experts and commercial diplomats. I will work with
allies and likeminded trading partners to identify and address trade
barriers in order to promote policies that support U.S. exports and
continue to vigorously enforce existing U.S. trade laws, including the
antidumping (AD) and countervailing duty (CVD) laws, to ensure that
U.S. workers, farmers and businesses are not harmed by unfair imports
from China.
a. American innovation in technology continues to create high-tech
manufacturing jobs and reduce our dependence on China. Will you commit
to working with Congress to vigorously protect American intellectual
property from unfair competition?
Answer. If confirmed, I will work with Congress to protect U.S.
intellectual property. The Department will address the challenge of
protecting U.S. intellectual property from theft and unfair competition
by helping our innovators and creators, providing information on how to
obtain protection, maintaining high standards for protection in any
future trade agreements, using tools at the Department's disposal to
ensure our trading partners abide by their international commitments,
including those respecting IP protection and enforcement, and
participating and defending U.S. intellectual property interests in
international forums and standard setting processes.
Question 3. How will the Department of Commerce enforce our trade
agreements? What actions will the Department take against entities that
violate our trade agreements?
Specifically, on intellectual property, how will the Department
fully and effectively defend U.S. companies' IP rights around the world
and ensure that foreign governments live up to their trade agreement IP
obligations?
Answer. The Department of Commerce (Commerce) has the statutory
responsibility to monitor trading partners' trade agreement compliance
and as such, proactively monitors, investigates, and resolves non-
tariff trade barriers. If confirmed, I will work with Commerce staff,
and when appropriate the Office of the United States Trade
Representative, to expeditiously address non-compliance matters and
refer for dispute settlement as needed.
Question 4. The COVID-19 pandemic created a disruption in global
supply lines and led to a shortage of semiconductor chips. Many
American manufacturing workers and main street businesses produce
products that include semiconductor chips to enhance safety and
efficiency. The current shortage is slowing down American factories and
may result in a total work stoppage.
a. Will the Department of Commerce work with our trading partners
to help alleviate the shortage of semiconductor chips?
Answer. The Department of Commerce will play an active role in
President Biden's whole-of-government approach to semiconductors. In
the short term, we should work with trading partners to explore options
for alleviating this shortage. In the long term, we must take steps to
ensure a resilient and secure supply chain for semiconductor chips,
including continued assistance to firms expanding their semiconductor
manufacturing investments in the United States. If confirmed, I look
forward to working with Congress to these ends.
Question 5. In July of 2020, the European Court of Justice struck
down the Privacy Shield program, invalidating a mechanism for
transferring personal data to the U.S. from the EU. This has raised
significant concerns about the continued viability of trans-Atlantic
data flows, which are estimated to generate more than $7 trillion in
economic activity, at an important moment for both U.S. economic
recovery and EU-US relations.
a. As Secretary of Commerce, will you support and prioritize the
on-going negotiations to replace the Privacy Shield program with the
goal of ensuring the continued viability of trans-Atlantic data flows?
b. Given the potential economic impact of interrupted data flows
across the U.S. economy, are you planning to be directly involved in
these discussions? Are there additional steps you intend to take?
Answer. If confirmed, one of my top priorities as Commerce
Secretary will be to quickly conclude an enhanced Privacy Shield
framework that fully addresses the European Court of Justice's concerns
and enables the EU-U.S. transfers of personal data that underpin the
$7.1 trillion transatlantic economy. I will work closely with my
counterparts in the U.S. government, in particular the Office of the
Director of National Intelligence, the Department of Justice, and the
Department of State, in order to ensure that these whole of government
negotiations are successful and the 5,400+ Privacy Shield participants,
more than 70 percent of whom were small and medium enterprises, can
efficiently and effectively do business with Europe once again on firm
ground.
Question 6. Artificial intelligence (AI) technology is
proliferating and important considerations are being brought to light
about both the benefits and challenges of these technologies. Most
notably, the European Commission is making significant progress toward
an AI regulatory approach. The Fiscal Year 2021 National Defense
Authorization Act included a bipartisan requirement for the National
Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to establish a
collaborative trustworthy AI framework, akin to their landmark
cybersecurity and privacy frameworks.
a. As the leading producer of AI in the world, do you agree that
the U.S. should be part of the global conversation on AI standards,
management practices, and regulation?
Answer. Yes. I agree unequivocally that the U.S. should be part of
the global conversation on AI standards, management practices, and
regulation. If confirmed, I look forward to working with NIST and
others across the Department to ensure that the U.S. maintains its
strong voice in these important global conversations on AI.
b. Given that it received considerable bipartisan support in
Congress, will you support and prioritize the on-going and important
work by NIST to launch to create a trustworthy AI framework?
Answer. Yes. If confirmed, I will be a strong supporter and
advocate for NIST's work to create a framework for trustworthy AI. I
understand that NIST has received funding from Congress that will
support this important work.
Question 7. I served on the Energy and Commerce Committee in 2009
when Congress passed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, which
sent billions of dollars to the Department of Commerce to provide
broadband grants. I was concerned in 2009, and I remain concerned that
we are not doing enough to protect taxpayer money from being used to
overbuild existing broadband networks.
a. Will you commit to the Committee that under your leadership at
the Department of Commerce, you will ensure that NTIA works with all
government and industry stakeholders to mitigate the threat of using
Federal money to overbuild existing broadband networks?
Answer. Yes.
b. How will you work to ensure that Federal resources are used for
the construction of broadband networks in wholly unserved, rather than
underserved, parts of the country?
Answer. As Governor, I have had to watch the challenges many
families and individuals have in my state without access to broadband
or have very limited bandwidth. If confirmed, as Secretary, I will work
to ensure that broadband grants are directed to the communities most
deserving and in need, consistent with the intent of the statute.
Question 8. As you may be aware, within the Department of Commerce
is the National Travel & Tourism Office and the U.S. Travel and Tourism
Advisory Board, which inform the Commerce Secretary on emerging issues
in travel and tourism, including travel facilitation, transportation
infrastructure, and aviation security. The travel industry has been one
of the hardest hit by the pandemic, and the Department has a critical
role to play in the balancing of public health and safety in air travel
with the need to support the viability of the travel industry.
The U.S. must lead the global community in implementing a multi-
layered, risk-based approach to restarting travel. Though I am glad to
hear President Biden will advance the CDC's new testing requirement for
inbound, international travelers, I believe that more can be done to
ensure that this rule is implemented smoothly.
a. Will you commit to addressing these concerns and considering the
interests of the travel industry as you work with your colleagues in
the Administration to tackle this crisis?
Answer. I believe it is critical for our economic recovery that the
United States prioritize the safe opening of domestic and international
travel in a way that mitigates the transmission of disease. On January
21, President Biden issued an Executive Order on Promoting COVID-19
Safety in Domestic and International Travel that mandates testing of
travelers entering the United States and directs the Departments of
Transportation, Homeland Security, and Health and Human Services,
through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and other
agencies to provide additional recommendations to the COVID-19 Response
Coordinator (Coordinator) on measures to support the safe reopening of
international and domestic travel. If confirmed, it is my intention to
offer the assistance of the Department of Commerce in bringing the
perspective of the travel and tourism industry, communicating to the
travel trade in the United States and international markets, and
coordinating across government.
Question 9. Before leaving office, President Trump signed an
executive order that seeks to grant the Department of Commerce
authorities to impose data collection requirements on cloud providers.
It is unclear how this action will effect relationships between cloud
providers and their customers overseas. These outcomes may put a major
sector of the U.S. economy at risk without clarity on how this action
advances data security.
Do I have your commitment to carefully review this EO and to work
with impacted industry stakeholders on this topic and others relating
to Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)?
Answer. If confirmed, I will carefully review the Executive Order
and work with impacted industry stakeholders on this topic and others
relating to Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS).
______
Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Ted Cruz to
Hon. Gina M. Raimondo
Question 1. Governor, in your confirmation hearing I asked you
several questions about an ongoing review of China policy by the Biden
administration, which includes the potential to remove several entities
from the Department of Commerce's ``Entity List.'' This list, as you
may know, houses foreign parties--such as an individual, business,
research institution, or government organization--which engage in
activities contrary to U.S. national security and/or foreign policy
interests. Specifically, I asked about entities that the Chinese
Communist Party (CCP) uses to conduct their surveillance campaigns of
the Uighurs in Xinjiang, which is part of their campaign of genocide in
the region, and about Huawei, which is a global espionage tool of the
CCP masquerading as a technology firm.
Additionally, on Jan 19 then-Secretary of State Pompeo announced
that the State Department had determined that ``the People's Republic
of China is committing genocide and crimes against humanity in
Xinjiang, China, targeting Uyghur Muslims and members of other ethnic
and religious minority groups.'' The same day, now-Secretary of State
Blinken confirmed that he agrees with that assessment in testimony to
the Senate Foreign Relations Committee: ``That would be my judgment as
well . . . I think we're very much in agreement,'' he said. ``The
forcing of men, women and children into concentration camps; trying to,
in effect, re-educate them to be adherents to the ideology of the
Chinese Communist Party, all of that speaks to an effort to commit
genocide.''
In response to my questions about companies used by the CCP for
their surveillance campaigns of the Uighurs, you said----
``I will commit that should I be confirmed and I am there, I
will review the policy, consult with you, consult with
industry, consult with our allies and make an assessment on
what is best for American national security.''
This answer is both troubling and does not address my questions.
I'd like to now more specifically ask you----
a. Do you believe that the CCP's targeting of the Uighurs in
Xinjiang constitutes a genocide?
b. Will you commit to ensuring the entities that were placed on the
Entity List because of their involvement in the CCP's human rights
abuses against the Uighurs and others in Xinjiang remain on the Entity
List, should you be confirmed as the Secretary of Commerce?
c. Will you commit to ensuring Huawei and its subsidiaries and
affiliates that are currently on the Entity List remain on the Entity
List, should you be confirmed as the Secretary of Commerce?
Answer. Secretary of State Blinken has made clear his judgement
that China's actions in Xinjiang constitute an effort to commit
genocide, and he speaks on behalf of the President on this issue. I
agree with him that the U.S. government has tools, including some that
Congress has provided, to take actions to not import products that are
made with forced labor from Xinjiang, or exporting technologies and
tools that could be used to further Uighurs' repression. If confirmed,
I will review how the Bureau of Industry and Security's (BIS)
authorities can be leveraged to promote the protection of human rights,
as Congress directed in the Export Control Reform Act (ECRA), including
through review of licenses for human rights concerns and Entity List
actions. I will also ensure any proposed additions or removals comply
with the policies and procedures of the Export Administration
Regulations (EAR).
With respect to Huawei, let me be clear: telecommunications
equipment made by untrusted vendors is a threat to the security of the
U.S. and our allies. We will ensure that American telecommunications
networks do not use equipment from untrusted vendors and will work with
allies to secure their telecommunications networks and make investments
to expand the production of telecommunications equipment by trusted
U.S. and allied companies.
In addition, Huawei's ties to China's military, human right abuses,
and theft of intellectual property have rightly been a source of
bipartisan concern, regulatory action, and legislation in the United
States and among U.S. partners and allies. I also am fully aware of and
support the provisions of the FY2020 NDAA and Secure and Trusted
Telecommunications Networks Act that contain restrictions on Huawei,
and look forward to working closely with the Director of National
Intelligence, Secretary of Defense, and Director of the FBI to ensure
that administration policies and actions related Huawei reflect their
national security concerns and judgements as well.
Question 2. The government of the People's Republic of China and
the Chinese Communist Party have established an ecosystem of public-
facing businesses and military infrastructure, sometimes described as a
civil-military fusion, to advance China's national security interests.
Utilizing public and private assets, they have among other things made
great strides in globally advancing their civilian nuclear industry.
a. Governor, what is your understanding of China's civil-military
fusion policy and its implications for the national security of the
United States? Please answer with as much detail as possible.
Answer. I am aware of the substantial challenges China's military-
civil fusion policy poses to U.S. national security. If confirmed, I
plan to leverage the full breadth of the authorities under the purview
of the Department of Commerce in order to protect U.S. national and
economic security interests. I also look forward to working with the
Secretary of Defense and Director of National Intelligence to fully
implement related provisions of the FY2021 NDAA (Section 1260H) and
other relevant legislation.
b. Will you commit to denying any licenses or permits that would
allow the export or reexport of technology that would be used to
advance China's civil nuclear sector, if you are confirmed?
Answer. If confirmed as Secretary of Commerce, I would ensure the
rigorous implementation of the existing framework for U.S. civil
nuclear exports to China and also support U.S. companies that raise
concerns regarding Chinese behavior. The entire U.S. government
continues to closely monitor Chinese behavior in the civil sector and
the Department of Commerce will use all of the tools at its disposal,
including the Entity List and license denial, where there is evidence
of wrongdoing and threats to economic and national security.
Question 3. Huawei, the ZTE Corporation, the Semiconductor
Manufacturing International Corporation, the Hangzhou Hikvision Digital
Technology Co., the Aviation Industry Corporation of China, Beijing
Skyrizon Aviation, and the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China
have been correctly listed on the Entity List and on Military End User
Lists because they pose e national security threats to the United
States. I'd like to ask you some questions about those companies and
those threats.
a. Do you agree these companies pose national threats to the United
States? If you do not, please describe why you do not believe so.
b. Will you commit to keeping all of these companies on the Entity
List? If not, please explain why not.
c. Will you commit to keeping all of these companies on the
Military End User List? If not, please explain why not.
Answer. The United States is engaged in strategic competition with
China, and technology is a central domain of that competition. We
should have no illusions about China's objectives, which I believe are
to undercut America's longstanding technological advantage and to
displace America as the global leader in cutting-edge research and
development and the industries of the future. The national security and
economic consequences of allowing that to happen are simply
unacceptable. That is the bottom-line perspective I will bring to this
role, if confirmed.
With respect to the Entity List, I understand that parties are
placed on the Entity List and the Military End User List generally
because they pose a risk to U.S. national security or foreign policy
interests. I currently have no reason to believe that entities on those
lists should not be there. If confirmed, I look forward to a briefing
on these entities and others of concern. I further understand that the
Department has an ongoing process in place to identify and review
activities of the Chinese government, commercial entities, and their
affiliates to determine whether placement of additional entities on the
Entity List and/or the Military End User List is warranted. I
understand that this is an interagency process. As Secretary, I will
not hesitate to encourage the use of the Entity List, the Military End
User List, and other appropriate tools within the scope of Commerce
authorities to protect U.S. national security and foreign policy
interests.
Question 4. Are there currently entities listed on the Entity and
Military End User Lists you do not consider to be national security
threats to the United States? If so, please specify--
a. Which entities those are; and
b. How you reached that determination for each party.
Answer. I understand that parties are placed on the Entity List and
the Military End User List generally because they pose a risk to U.S.
national security or foreign policy interests. I currently have no
reason to believe that entities on those lists should not be there. If
confirmed, I look forward to a briefing on these entities. I further
understand that the Department has an ongoing process in place to
identify and review the activities of entities and their affiliates to
determine whether addition to the Entity List and/or the Military End
User List is warranted and that this is an interagency process. As
Secretary, I will not hesitate to encourage the use of the Entity List,
the Military End User List, and other appropriate tools within the
scope of Commerce authorities to protect U.S. national security and
foreign policy interests.
Question 5. If you will not commit to ensuring foreign parties
engaged in activities contrary to U.S. national security and/or foreign
policy interests will not be removed from the Entity and/or Military
End User Lists, please list, specifically----
a. Which parties on the Entity List and/or Military End User List
you would consider removing and allowing access to sensitive U.S.
technology; and
b. Your rational for removing each party from the Entity List and/
or Military End User List.
Answer. I understand that the Commerce Department's Bureau of
Industry and Security (BIS) has an ongoing process in place to identify
and review activities of entities and their affiliates to determine
whether addition to the Entity List and/or the Military End User List
is warranted and that this is an interagency process. I currently have
no reason to believe that entities on those lists should not be there.
If confirmed, I look forward to a briefing on these entities and the
interagency process. As Secretary, I will not hesitate to encourage the
use of the Entity List, the Military End User List, and other
appropriate tools within the scope of Commerce authorities to protect
U.S. national security and foreign policy interests.
Question 6. The re-export of illicit technology to Iran poses an
acute and complicated challenge to the enforcement of American export
and re-export laws. The Iranian regime consistently seeks to circumvent
American efforts to curb its support for terrorism and expansionism by
acquiring technology through third countries, including sensitive
military technology. Information that has been declassified across
multiple administrations and indictments which have been unsealed
indicate the regime using front companies and other means to evade
detection. Please describe----
a. How you evaluate the challenge posed by Iran's acquisition of
prohibited technologies through third parties, including specifically
aviation and aeronautical technology.
b. The priority you intend to place, if confirmed, on enforcing
American re-export restrictions to Iran.
c. Specific steps you would take to stop the flow of prohibited
goods to Iran, if you are confirmed.
Answer. Currently, a license from the Department's Bureau of
Industry and Security (BIS) is required to export or reexport most
items (commodities, software, and technology) on the Commerce Control
List (CCL) to Iran pursuant to EAR Section 746.7. In addition to BIS
license requirements, the Department of Treasury's Office of Foreign
Assets Control (OFAC) prohibits exports and reexports to Iran of items
subject of the EAR pursuant to the Iranian Transactions and Sanctions
Regulations (ITSR) (31 CFR Part 560). Taken together, the two agencies'
authorities broadly restrict the provision of items subject to the EAR
to Iran, whether by U.S. persons or non-U.S. persons, and including
from third countries. If confirmed, I commit to working alongside
Treasury Secretary Yellen to ensure appropriate coordination between
our agencies to ensure strict compliance with these restrictions.
Question 7. The Commerce Department is responsible for enforcing
U.S. anti-boycott laws which impose penalties for participating in
boycotts that run contrary to American interests, including and
especially boycotts of Israel that Congress has consistently sought to
discourage
a. If confirmed, you will oversee the Office of Anti-boycott
Compliance. Will you commit that you will fully and actively enforce
U.S. anti-boycott laws and regulations, and prioritize protecting
American companies from foreign boycotts?
b. In dealings with countries that participate in the boycott of
Israel, will you commit to making it a priority to encourage them to
end their boycott?
Answer. I commit to fully and actively enforcing all U.S. anti-
boycott laws and will always prioritize protecting American companies
and the American worker.
Question 8. On his first day in office, President Biden rejoined
the Paris Agreement, a binding international treaty on climate change.
Similarly, you signaled intent to enact climate change policy should
you be confirmed as Secretary of Commerce.
a. What role will the Department of Commerce have in implementing
the stringent requirements of the Paris Climate Agreement?
b. Under what statutory authority does the Department of Commerce
have the ability to do so?
Answer (a and b). Like President Biden, I know the climate crisis
poses an existential threat to our economic security, and we must meet
this challenge by creating millions of good, union jobs that power a
more sustainable economy. The Commerce Department has the tools, data,
and expertise to help communities and businesses address the climate
crisis and become more resilient in the face of climate change. As one
of the agencies under the Congressionally mandated U.S. Global Change
Research Program, the Department of Commerce, through NOAA, plays a
leadership role in the development of the quadrennial National Climate
Assessment, which analyzes trends in global change and its effects on
various sectors.
Question 9. Economic analysis estimates that as many as 2.7 million
jobs could be lost as a result of complying with the terms of the Paris
Accord. Additionally, President Biden revoked the permit for the
Keystone XL pipeline on January 20, 2021, eliminating 11,000 jobs.
What will the Department of Commerce do to support the workers
whose jobs have already been cancelled by the Biden Administration or
will be eliminated in the future?
Answer. Should I be confirmed, I will work closely with the
Economic Development Administration (EDA) to continue to create new
well-paying jobs in distressed areas and ensure that all Americans are
well-equipped to compete for jobs of the future. Within the Department
of Commerce, EDA leads the Federal economic development agenda by
promoting innovation and competitiveness, preparing our communities for
growth and success in the worldwide economy. EDA's portfolio of
flexible programs is designed to assist communities at every stage,
allowing for innovation and responsiveness to changing economic
conditions that lead to job creation.
Question 10. During your hearing, you stated that the United States
needs to formulate a national strategy on spectrum in order to win the
race for 5G, in addition to making spectrum available from public and
commercial uses. As agencies disagree over spectrum allocation, can you
commit that the Biden Administration will never pursue a government-
owned telecommunications network?
Answer. United States commercial telecommunications networks are
the envy of the world. Commercial telecommunications service providers
routinely and reliably deliver a sophisticated, complex, hi-tech
service, and they work hard to keep their networks best-in-class. As I
stated in my hearing testimony, I do not support nationalization of a
5G telecommunications network and I am unaware of any present intention
to pursue a government-owned telecommunications network.
a. Does the Biden Administration plan to rescind the ``Defense
Spectrum Sharing Request for Information'' issued on September 18, 2020
by the Department of Defense?
Answer. That Request for Information was issued by the Department
of Defense under the previous Administration. The responses to that
Request for Information have already been submitted, and I respectfully
submit that this question would be more properly directed to the
Secretary of Defense.
Question 11. Family and friends of President Biden are deeply
enmeshed in the Washington, D.C. lobbying industry. His son, Hunter
Biden, has been paid for consulting and lobbying services by multiple
foreign governments. Given the role of the Department of Commerce in
promoting America's businesses abroad, what procedures or safeguards
will you have in place to guard against impropriety should you be
approached by a Biden relative or long-time associate?
Answer. If confirmed, I will ensure that the Department of Commerce
adheres to the highest ethical standards. I would also direct you to
Executive Order 13989 of January 20, 2021, which affirms a strong
ethics pledge for all political appointees in the Biden Administration.
Question 12. In 2009, prior to her confirmation as Secretary of
State, then-Senator Hillary Clinton approved a memorandum of
Understanding between the Clinton Foundation and the Obama
Administration that, through transparency, assure Americans the
Foundation was not receiving undue donations as a means to curry favor.
Does the Biden Administration plan to require a similarly-transparent
plan from the Biden Institute at the University of Delaware, the Biden
School of Public Policy and Administration at the University of
Delaware, long-time Biden associates who may or may not have previously
registered as lobbyists, and Biden family members?
Answer. This question is outside the scope of the Department of
Commerce. If confirmed, I will ensure that the Department of Commerce
adheres to the highest ethical standards. I would also direct you to
Executive Order 13989 of January 20, 2021, which affirms a strong
ethics pledge for all political appointees in the Biden Administration.
Question 13. Governor, the previous Administration invoked Section
232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962 to impose duties on imports of
steel products that pose a threat to national security. At the time,
Democrats publicly stated their position\1\ that the rationale used was
inadequate. The new Biden Administration has signaled that they may use
trade policy and law as a way to combat climate change around the
world, possibly using existing trade law to impose `carbon' tariffs on
imported products. What is your position on using existing trade law to
implement President Biden's environmental agenda? Do you believe that
there is existing authority to impose duties using the rationale of
combatting climate change? If so, please specify which statutes and
regulations provide that authority.
Answer. If confirmed as Secretary of Commerce, I intend to work
closely with Congress on the issue of climate change and can commit to
use the tools available under the law and work with our interagency
partners and other stakeholders to implement the Administration's
environmental policies, as appropriate.
Question 14. The previous Administration has been criticized for
relying too heavily on duties to combat the abusive trade practices
used by China that have harmed American business for decades. Governor,
what trade enforcement mechanisms do you plan to use as head of the
Department of Commerce to protect American businesses and interests
from China?
Answer. The Department of Commerce (Commerce) recognizes the need
to confront unfair trade practices directly, whether those by China or
other countries. Accordingly, if confirmed, I will employ all relevant
and appropriate trade enforcement mechanisms to protect U.S. workers
and businesses. For example, Commerce will proactively monitor and
investigate China's non-compliance with its WTO trade obligations and
work with other agencies, such as the Office of the United States Trade
Representative, to implement the most effective strategy to address
these issues.
Question 15. Many of our trading partners are simply not living up
to their commitments with the U.S. This problem spans the globe and
affects every American industry. But in particular, I want to focus on
the need to enforce trade obligations for America's highly innovative
industries that rely on American intellectual property. We cannot allow
the rest of the world to steal or freeride on the inventions of
American workers. How do you intend to use the trade enforcement tools
at the department to ensure that we truly combat this issue?
Answer. I recognize that protection and enforcement of U.S.
intellectual property rights is a trade policy priority. If confirmed,
the Commerce Department, under my direction, would remain actively
involved, with USTR and other agencies, in challenging countries to
commit to highest standards of intellectual property protection in
their agreements with the United States and to fully implement and
abide by those commitments. U.S. trading partners must abide by IP-
related trade commitments and I am committed to use of Commerce tools
and authorities where warranted to bring this about.
Question 16. Biopharmaceutical innovators--and the millions of jobs
they support in the United States-have worked mightily over the last
year to combat the COVID epidemic, and to good effect. In order to
drive discovery and to maintain the global competitiveness of our
innovators, how will Commerce work to further strengthen U.S. industry
in this fight, as well as in other public health battles in the future?
Answer. EDA has demonstrated support to the Nation's response to
the COVID pandemic through initiatives such as the launch of the
Scaling Pandemic Resilience Through Innovation and Technology (SPRINT)
Challenge funded through the CARES Act. It is my understanding that the
SPRINT Challenge enables EDA to invest in regional innovation economies
to address the economic, health, and safety risks caused by the
coronavirus pandemic through entrepreneurship such as scaling and
delivering innovative biotechnology and health security technologies.
EDA plans to continue to leverage innovation to reduce the threat
caused by extremely dangerous pathogens to local economies through
related initiatives.
Question 17. The purpose of Section 232 tariffs is to stimulate
domestic steel production and capacity. In December 2020, the Commerce
Department published an interim final rule on the Section 232 product
exclusion process, which included the adoption of General Approved
Exclusions (GAEs). These GAEs allow covered products to be imported
free from Section 232 tariffs, even though the GAE list contains
numerous products that the domestic industry can and does produce. Can
you describe what action you would take as the Secretary of Commerce to
ensure that the GAEs are modified to cover only those products that the
domestic industry is not capable of producing?
Answer. If confirmed, I will ensure that the Department continues
to evaluate all aspects of the 232 Exclusions Process, including
General Approved Exclusions (GAEs).
Question 18. The Biden Administration has said he will pursue a
``worker-centered trade policy.'' In the past, this term has been used
to pursue a trade agenda that disregards the concerns and interests of
businesses, leading to U.S. companies operating at a disadvantage
compared to their international counterparts. Given that over 40
million jobs in the United States depend on international trade, it is
vital that the trade agenda also be centered around protecting American
businesses which supply those jobs. Governor, do you commit to only
advancing a trade agenda that protects American businesses' ability to
continue employing American workers?
Answer. If confirmed, it would be my job as Secretary of Commerce
to use our trade tools to the fullest extent possible to protect
American workers. This includes both enforcing our trade laws and
holding our trade partners accountable, but also creating opportunities
for U.S. companies to access overseas markets and investment. We must
ensure that American workers can compete fairly on the global playing
field.
Question 19. The Obama/Biden Administration recognized that there
is a massive global overcapacity issue affecting the steel industry,
involving not just China, but many other countries as well.
Unfortunately, multilateral efforts to address this significant
problem, such as the ongoing Global Forum on Steel Excess Capacity and
the OECD Steel Subsidy negotiations in the early 2000s, have simply not
worked. Can you describe what actions you would take as the Secretary
of Commerce to address this serious global steel overcapacity issue and
ensure a vibrant domestic steel industry, which is critical to U.S.
national security?
Answer. The Department of Commerce's approach to global steel
excess capacity includes active international engagement as well as
strong enforcement regarding unfairly traded steel imports. If
confirmed as Secretary, I intend to continue to coordinate with trading
partners on information regarding, and solutions to address, the excess
capacity crisis. Additionally, if confirmed, it is my intention to
continue to rigorously enforce the U.S. trade laws, including the AD
and CVD laws, to help ensure a level playing field for the critical
U.S. steel sector.
Question 20. I know as a Governor, you have been very focused on
attracting new investments in Rhode Island and in particular foreign
direct investment. As Commerce Secretary, you will have the nearly
exclusive role of leading America's campaign for increased foreign
direct investment in the US. What is your plan for helping to encourage
such investment and the job creation that comes with it?
Answer. It is essential to retain and grow the more than 15 million
U.S. jobs directly and indirectly supported by FDI. If confirmed, I
will fully support and resource the SelectUSA Program--a group whose
work in the last 10 years has supported over $82 billion in FDI into
the U.S. supporting over 100,000 U.S. jobs.
Question 21. The semiconductor industry is often called the ``holy
grail'' of capital investment. A new fab (manufacturing plant for
semiconductor chips) can cost upwards of $10 billion for a green-field
new investment. Taiwan's TSMC recently announced that they plan to
build such a plant here in the US, in the State of Arizona. The largest
foreign direct investment in the U.S. in more than a decade. Do you
agree that the semiconductor industry is important for the U.S. economy
and national security and what kinds of actions would you take as
Commerce Secretary to further incentivize similar investments in this
key sector?
Answer. I agree that U.S. leadership in semiconductors is a
cornerstone of U.S. economy and national security as well as the
innovation ecosystem that keeps the United States on the cutting edge
of technology. The President has highlighted that the United States
needs to close supply chain vulnerabilities across a range of critical
products on which the U.S. is dangerously dependent on foreign
suppliers. If confirmed as Secretary, I will promote policies that will
lead to stronger, more resilient domestic supply chains in a number of
areas, including energy and grid resilience technologies,
semiconductors, key electronics and related technologies,
telecommunications infrastructure, and key raw materials. I commit to
working with you on this critically important issue.
Question 22. As Commerce Secretary you will lead America's efforts
to protect cutting edge technologies and military systems from being
shared with countries that threaten our national security. This is a
critical mission, but one that requires careful balance. As Secretary,
how would you work to ensure enforcement of our export control laws
without undermining investment in the U.S. or inadvertently hurting
American technology companies and preventing them from competing
globally?
Answer. If confirmed, I will assess the current process for
obtaining input from industry to assure effective export controls that
protect U.S. national security and foreign policy interests while
mitigating negative effects on U.S. technological leadership. As
Secretary, I will also prioritize multilateral and plurilateral
engagements that harmonize U.S. export controls with those of like-
minded nations, which will strengthen our ability to maintain an
effective export control system while limiting the ability of our
foreign adversaries to continue to access sensitive U.S. technologies
for malign purposes.
Question 23. The mission of Commerce's Bureau of Industry and
Security has traditionally been focused on preventing the sale or
export of munitions and weapons components. Together with our key
allies this has been a shared effort/priority. More recently, some
critics have said that U.S. only export controls have been used to
accomplish other policy goals, far from this specific national security
mission. Do you worry that recent expansions of export control
applicability may drive key innovation off-shore and exacerbate the
erosion of key foundational technologies like chip manufacturing and
semiconductor design?
Answer. As Secretary of Commerce, I will be dedicated to working
with our partners to harmonize export controls and work together to
prevent the proliferation of dual use technologies that can benefit
foreign adversaries' military capabilities to the detriment of U.S.
national security. U.S. technological competitiveness is a key concern
of mine, and my goal is to ensure that our defense of U.S. national
security and foreign policy interests does not come at a cost to U.S.
long-term leadership in technology and innovation.
Question 24. The Department of Commerce's Bureau of Economic
Analysis recently disclosed that expenditures by foreign direct
investors to acquire, establish, or expand U.S. businesses totaled
$194.7 billion in 2019, down 37.7 percent from $312.5 billion in 2018.
This is a worrying trend. What would you like to do to reverse this
trend and make America a more attractive place to create or expand new
businesses and create jobs for Americans? Is this a part of the
Administration's COVID recovery plan?
Answer. It is essential to retain and grow the more than 15 million
U.S. jobs directly and indirectly supported by FDI. If confirmed, I
will fully support and resource the SelectUSA Program--a group whose
work in the last 10 years has supported over $82 billion in FDI into
the U.S. supporting over 100,000 U.S. jobs.
Question 25. The Department of Commerce is charged with
strengthening the competitiveness of U.S. industry, promoting trade and
investment and ensuring fair trade through the rigorous enforcement of
our trade laws and agreements. With that in mind, how will you work to
ensure that our trading partners are enforcing existing commitments and
how will you work to deter countries from weakening their standards in
their own IP regimes?
Answer. The Department of Commerce is committed to ensuring that
U.S. trading partners abide by IP-related trade commitments and I
assure you that, if I am confirmed, I am committed to using Commerce
tools and authorities where warranted to bring this about. I will also
be committed to deterring countries from seeking to weaken standards in
their IP regimes that effectively protect U.S. intellectual property
rights and the interests of U.S. intellectual property rights holders.
Question 26. The Department of Commerce promotes job creation and
economic growth, and one way to do that is to work with our trading
partners to promote high intellectual property standards
internationally. Never have the benefits of strong IP been as relevant
as they are today, in how our pharmaceutical companies, for example,
have worked so quickly to develop a COVID vaccine. How will you use
your role within this administration to ensure that America's highly
innovative industries are treated fairly by our trading partners and
that a level playing field exists in order to support the millions of
American jobs they create?
Answer. I agree that we need the benefits of a strong IP, and that
this issue is as relevant today as it has ever been. I will always push
for fairer laws and practices for American companies. If confirmed, I
will work with the Congress to protect U.S. intellectual property. The
Department will address the challenge of protecting U.S. intellectual
property from theft and unfair competition by helping our innovators
and creators, providing information on how to obtain protection,
maintaining high standards for protection in any future trade
agreements, using tools at the Department's disposal to ensure our
trading partners abide by their international commitments, including
those respecting IP protection and enforcement, and participating and
defending U.S. intellectual property interests in international forums
and standard setting processes.
Question 27. Despite the fact you reportedly resigned in 2011 from
Point Judith Capital (PJC), your former investment firm, in 2020
journalists reported that PJC had recently added your name, image and
bio back to its website after it had been removed for ``for a decade''
and PJC listed you as the ``General Partner Emerita.'' It appears that
your former firm was using your name and government position in its
marketing. The ethics concerns are obvious and serious.\2\
a. When did you formally resign from PJC?
b. Specifically, what did this resignation entail? Did you step
down from the day-to-day decision making at the firm? From that date to
present, have you been involved in any decision-making or management
decisions of PJC or otherwise given PJC input with respect to any
business or investment decisions or strategies?
c. Have you ever served on PJC's Board of Directors or on the Board
of any related entity, affiliate, business partner, or other entity
that is an investor with PJC? If so, what dates did you serve on such
Board(s)?
d. Please describe in detail the steps you took as part of your
resignation/separation from PJC as a partner, from management, from the
Board, as an investor, and in any other capacity.
e. Is it true that you have had no involvement in any decision
making at PJC since the date you listed in Question 1(a) above?
f. What financial remuneration have you received from PJC, any
related entity, affiliate, business partner or other entity that is an
investor with PJC in each year since 2010?
g. Did you give anyone at PJC either oral or written permission to
use your name, bio, and image on the website at any point following the
date of your resignation/separation that you identified in Question
1(a) above, including either in 2019 or 2020?
h. Are there any existing employment, consulting, personal service
contracts, or other financial arrangements currently in place between
yourself and PJC or any related entity, affiliate, business partner or
other entity that is an investor with PJC?
Answer. Following my election as General Treasurer in 2010, I
resigned from Point Judith Capital and its investment committee. Prior
to assuming office, I placed the interests in Point Judith venture
funds that I maintained into a blind trust. Under the blind trust, the
trustee made decisions as to when and to what extent the original
assets of the trust were to be sold or disposed of and in what
investments the proceeds of sale would be reinvested, without any
participation in, or knowledge of, such decisions by me or my husband.
In order to ensure I adhered to the highest possible ethical standards
and in order to avoid even the appearance of any conflict, I sought and
received an opinion from the Rhode Island Ethics Commission concerning
my prior work at Point Judith Capital and the creation of the blind
trust. The Ethics Commission concluded that my resignation from the
firm and my creation of the blind trust were appropriate measures to
help avoid potential conflicts of interest. Aside from the assets in
that blind trust, I have had no involvement with Point Judith,
including with any decisions, management, or investments, since that
time.
I have also submitted all financial information requested by the
Senate Commerce Committee as a part of the committee's questionnaire,
and have filed a publicly available financial disclosure form 278 with
the Office of Government Ethics.
Question 28. According to an advisory opinion, you promised the
Rhode Island Ethics Commission that you had ``taken appropriate
measures to distance [yourself] from Point Judith and [your]
investments in its funds.'' Please describe, in detail, what those
measures were.
Answer. See response to Question 27.
Question 29. In addition, there appear to be very serious questions
about potential conflicts of interest given you that you named David
Martirano, a former PJC colleague of yours, to a board overseeing the
University of Rhode Island?
a. Did you seek the advice of any ethics attorneys in the
Governor's office or in State government before making this
appointment? If so, with whom did you consult?
b. Did you receive anything in writing, recommending either for or
against or otherwise commenting on the proprietary of the Martirano
appointment either before or after the appointment?
Answer. Mr. Martirano is a graduate of the University of Rhode
Island with a history of advising and supporting his alma mater. His
nomination to the Board of Trustees of the University of Rhode Island,
a volunteer position, was approved by the Rhode Island State Senate
with an overwhelming, bipartisan majority.
Question 30. In 2014, it was reported that while you were Rhode
Island State Treasurer your former firm, PJC, made money from Envista,
a company that was hired to work for the Providence Water Supply Board
(PWSB), at the same time that your husband was chair of the PWSB.
a. Did you have any conversations with your husband about the PWSB-
Envista contract prior to the awarding of the contract?
b. To your knowledge, did the PWSB put this contract out for public
bid as reportedly required by law?
Answer. Neither I nor my husband had any role in the awarding of
this contract.
______
Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Dan Sullivan to
Hon. Gina M. Raimondo
Question 1. If the Administration chooses to pursue the 30x30
concept (blocking 30 percent of the EEZ from extraction by 2030), I
have significant concern for the physical or economic displacement that
something like this may cause. As the largest seafood producer in the
nation, Alaska is home to a myriad of small, rural and Alaska Native
communities that are highly fishery dependent. I am concerned for how
many people's livelihoods may be affected by this concept and what
inequalities this could exacerbate.
Should the Administration choose to pursue this, how will
you consult with stakeholders to ensure for clear 30x30
objectives that aren't destabilizing to small and remote
coastal fishing economies?
Can you commit to me that if 30x30 goes ahead: 1) all
stakeholders will be involved in the decision making on areas
designated; 2) special consideration will be given for remote,
fishery dependent and subsistence communities; 3) clear
objectives for designations will be developed, and that a
definition will be developed for areas and activities that are
allowed in MPAs so that it is consistent with these objectives?
Answer. I recognize the importance of this issue to you and the
state of Alaska and agree that robust stakeholder engagement is
critical to the success of this process. On January 27, 2021, President
Biden released the Executive Order on Tackling the Climate Crisis at
Home and Abroad. Sec. 216 of this Executive Order calls for the
Secretary of the Interior, in consultation with the Secretaries of
Agriculture and Commerce, the Chair of the Council of Environmental
Quality and other relevant agencies, to develop a report within 90 days
of its issuance on the steps to achieve the goal of conserving at least
30 percent of the Nation's lands and waters. The Executive Order calls
on Federal agencies to solicit input from State, local, Tribal, and
territorial officials, agricultural and forest landowners, fishermen,
and other key stakeholders in identifying strategies that will
encourage broad participation. In addition, section 216 (c)
specifically calls on the Secretary of Commerce, through NOAA, to work
in the first 60 days to collect input from fishermen, regional ocean
councils, scientists, fishery management councils, and other
stakeholders on how to make fisheries and protected resources more
resilient to climate change.
Question 2. In 2019, more than 79 million international visitors
spent $155 billion in the U.S., supporting nearly 1.2 million American
jobs. This made international travel to the U.S. our Nation's largest
service sector export and our Nation's second largest industry export
overall. Our competitors around the globe have recognized the economic
importance of international travel and many have cabinet-level
positions overseeing travel and tourism to support and grow the
industry. Despite its economic importance in the U.S., we do not have a
cabinet level position for travel and tourism.
That's why, in the last Congress, I introduced the Visit America
Act, along with Senator Schatz and Senator King. This committee
approved that bill with overwhelming support in the last Congress.
If confirmed as the Secretary of Commerce, will you work to
set a national goal of welcoming 116 million annual
international visitors by 2028 and commit to work with other
Federal agencies on a national strategy to achieve that goal?
If confirmed, would you support the establishment of an
Assistant Secretary for Travel and Tourism?
Answer. If confirmed, I will look at the way that the Department of
Commerce engages and addresses the interests of the stakeholders in the
travel and tourism sector to ensure that we are both effective and
efficient in these efforts, including whether the establishment of an
Assistant Secretary for Travel and Tourism would be the best mechanism
to meet these needs.
Question 3. Federal law mandates the NOAA research vessel
FAIRWEATHER be homeported in Ketchikan, Alaska. However, the NOAA pier
in Ketchikan was condemned in 2008, and since that time the FAIRWEATHER
has been homeported outside of Alaska. I have been urging NOAA for
years to repair the pier and return the FAIRWEATHER to Ketchikan. To
help pay for this project, I included a provision in the 2018 Coast
Guard bill that authorized NOAA to accept non-federal funds for the
construction of a new pier. My state gave the Department of Commerce
$6.5 million for this project, but that money will only cover the
destruction of the existing pier structure. An additional $11.5 million
will be needed to complete construction of the new pier. Congress just
appropriated $43 million for NOAA construction with report language
directing NOAA to prioritize infrastructure projects that support
research vessels like the FAIRWEATHER pier in Ketchikan. Since my state
has put up the majority of the money so far, I'm looking to you to
dedicate the necessary funding to see this project through to
completion.
Will you commit to make the Ketchikan pier construction
project a funding priority until we have succeeded in
permanently returning the FAIRWEATHER to its congressionally
mandated homeport of Ketchikan, Alaska?
Answer. I understand the importance of bringing jobs and economic
activity to communities to ensure the well-being of its people.
Additionally, being from a coastal state, I understand how critical
pier construction projects are to the well-being of coastal communities
and the important role that NOAA plays in such targeted investments to
grow the American economy. If confirmed, I look forward to learning
more about the Ketchikan pier construction project and working with you
to prioritize this and other infrastructure projects that support
research vessels like the NOAA Fairweather and the NOAA mission.
Question 4. NOAA has far-reaching authority to ensure that wild
commercial fisheries follow sustainable harvest limits. Once fish are
harvested, however, NOAA can and should be doing more to help our
sustainable and responsible commercial fisheries compete and thrive in
seafood markets. Seafood as a commodity does not get the Federal
attention or expert promotion of other U.S. food commodities, which
essentially undercuts and fails to deliver the value of all our
investment in safe, sustainable production.
Specifically, DOC should (1) dedicate staff to understanding
seafood as a commodity and promote consumer awareness of our
sustainability. (2) It should work with food commodity experts at USDA
to effectively integrate knowledge of seafood production and processing
into USDA food support programs. (3) It should take USDA's findings of
the neonatal and other health benefits of seafood as another benefit to
maximize for U.S. fisheries. In short, we need Federal leadership to be
accountable for supporting seafood as a commodity. My goal would be to
work with you to develop a clear strategy for making sustainable
seafood competitiveness a high priority, both within DOC and through
interagency efforts.
If confirmed, will you execute an internal review of DOC
programs and competencies on seafood as a commodity, and follow
up with me and my staff regarding your findings in this area?
In the global seafood marketplace, the U.S. seafood industry has
suffered significant losses in ongoing tariff wars. Essentially shut
out of the seafood market in China, a global seafood hub with ever-
increasing domestic consumption, U.S. products face steep Chinese
tariffs--while seafood producers in other nations do not. U.S. seafood
destined for Japan, the EU and UK face steep tariffs, but we import
seafood from those countries tariff-free. Russia has an embargo on our
seafood, while we import hundreds of millions tariff-free from them.
This is shocking and unacceptable.
As Commerce Secretary, can you commit to further analysis of
these seafood trade dynamics at ITA, specifically focusing on
the removal of trade barriers and promotion of reciprocity?
Can you commit to having DOC work with USTR to ensure
seafood products receive priority attention as USTR pursues
future trade agreements?
Answer. I recognize the importance of ensuring the ability of the
U.S. seafood industry to compete fairly in the international
marketplace. If confirmed, I will ensure that ITA, NOAA and other
relevant DOC entities continue to work closely with USTR to ensure U.S.
seafood products receive priority attention. I look forward to learning
what other opportunities DOC has to support seafood as a commodity.
Question 5. Fisheries are the number one employer in Alaska and a
critical component for food security within the State and across the
Nation. I believe that there is not nearly enough attention paid by
Commerce on the role that seafood plays in food security. Currently,
many USDA programs exclude fishermen, even as they provide food
security to the Nation alongside farmers and ranchers.
Should policy regarding local foods and communities that are
fishery dependent be considered as a part of the Magnuson
Stevens Act to ensure that fishery dependent communities are
able to maintain access to the commercial fisheries they rely
on?
What steps would you take to factor in pandemic effects and
climate change initiatives as we build resilient food systems
and work to maintain access to fisheries for communities who
provide food to the nation?
Answer. As a coastal Governor, I recognize the importance of the
fishing and seafood sector to coastal economies, food security, and the
communities that rely on a maritime economy. If confirmed, I look
forward to working with NOAA to support the fishing and seafood sectors
as they face the impacts of the pandemic and from climate change.
Question 6. Alaska has a longer coastline than the rest of the
lower 48 states combined, so as an Alaskan I have a particular interest
in combatting marine debris. I have led two bipartisan bills on the
issue--Save Our Seas and Save Our Seas 2.0. NOAA has been a close and
cooperative partner in these efforts.
The Save Our Seas 2.0 Act, the most comprehensive marine debris
legislation ever passed by Congress, was signed into law in December
2020. The Commerce Department, primarily NOAA, has a large role in
implementing the marine debris response efforts in SOS 2.0. This role
includes establishing the Marine Debris Foundation, a Congressionally
chartered private foundation. It also includes recommending candidates
for the 12-person Board of Directors.
As NOAA prepares to do establish the Marine Debris Foundation, I
would like them to consider establishing the Foundation headquarters in
Alaska. In particular, two campuses of the University of Alaska
Fairbanks, one in Juneau and one in Kodiak, are strategically located
and already house institutes that would provide good synergy to
Foundation efforts, although there are other potential Foundation
locations in Alaska as well. Additionally, I would like the Board of
Directors to have a diversity of views and expertise, and potentially
include some Alaskan experts.
Can you commit to actively reaching out to Alaska-based
officials and exploring the possibility of establishing the
Marine Debris Foundation in Alaska?
Additionally, do you agree that Alaskan experts on marine
debris would complement the makeup of the Board?
Answer. Thank you for your leadership on addressing marine debris.
If confirmed, I look forward to working with NOAA and other experts,
including from Alaska, to implement your legislation.
Question 7. The need to fight Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated
(IUU) fishing is important, as such foreign fishing practices can
damage global fish stocks and fisheries economies. At the same time,
it's just as important to be sure that the U.S. understands the true
nature of this IUU threat, so that we can develop strategies based on
actual risk and evaluated through meaningful metrics. It's tempting to
overreact to this threat, seeking expansive and expensive measures that
may have only marginal benefit. One example is the Seafood Import
Monitoring Program (SIMP), a NOAA regulation intended to ensure
traceability for fish stocks in U.S. commerce and fight IUU fishing.
While SIMP may work for some species, it doesn't work well for Pacific
cod, which is harvested sustainably and responsibly in Alaska. While
there is little to no risk of IUU for Pacific cod, NOAA is forcing our
domestic producers to undertake burdensome, unnecessary, and redundant
steps to comply with SIMP--at great cost but for negligible benefit.
Do you agree with the idea that regulatory efforts,
including those to enforce rules against IUU fishing, should be
risk-based and reviewed against empirical data and actual
performance metrics?
Do you agree that cost/benefit analyses should help inform
SIMP regulatory program design, even if it means acknowledging
that not all species warrant SIMP coverage?
If NOAA pursues changes to SIMP, can you assure me it will
work with Coast Guard, USTR, and our domestic fishing and
seafood industry to identify and incorporate necessary changes
to SIMP?
Answer. As a coastal Governor, I understand the importance of the
seafood industry and of ensuring the industry is able to compete with
other countries on an even playing field. Should I be confirmed, I will
work with you and NOAA to better understand the issues that the Alaskan
producers are facing with respect to the Seafood Import Monitoring
Program.
______
Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Marsha Blackburn to
Hon. Gina M. Raimondo
Question 1. As a Governor, I'm sure you have had to deal with
numerous Federal regulatory hurdles before completing or starting a
simple infrastructure project.
What are your thoughts on the Federal regulatory permitting
process?
Do you believe this process should be more transparent for
mayors and state officials?
Answer. Through my experience as a state official both in my
capacity as State Treasurer and Governor of Rhode Island, I fully
understand the need for transparency in the regulatory process, and, if
confirmed, I pledge to work with you to learn more about how we can
continue to provide government transparency in the commercial world. I
would welcome hearing more of your ideas on this issue.
Question 2. In your testimony, you laid out three policy areas
where the DOC ``must be a partner to business and their workers.'' The
third area was focused on climate change
If confirmed, at what point would you reassess climate
change-related policies if they hurt businesses or hamper job
growth?
Also, what metrics would you use to assess the costs to
businesses and job growth in relation to policies focused on
climate change?
Answer. Climate change poses an existential threat to our economic
security, and I recognize the benefits of understanding the full
impacts of climate change on U.S. businesses. If confirmed, I would
look across all the Commerce Department's bureaus to continue providing
the tools, data, and expertise to help communities and businesses
address the climate crisis and become more resilient in the face of
climate change.
Question 3. You clearly believe that climate change should be among
the top issues of Department of Commerce.
Can you please tell this committee what percentage of the
Department's budget you would allocate to climate change-
related policies?
Answer. Climate change poses an existential threat to our economic
security. If confirmed, I would look across all the Commerce
Department's bureaus on how to better forecast, understand, and
mitigate the impacts of climate change for all Americans. I look
forward to working with the Congress on improving and resourcing the
Department's tools to address climate change.
Question 4. The biggest obstacle to bringing advanced manufacturing
jobs back to states and communities is educating new workers.
How do you plan to work with businesses, states, and local
entities to promote advanced manufacturing education?
Answer. If confirmed, one of my top priorities will be making
American workers and businesses competitive. There are many tools that
the Commerce Department use to promote manufacturing and good paying
jobs through the Economic Development Administration (EDA) and the
Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA), as well as the
Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP).I look forward to working
with you on this important issue.
Question 5. Currently, the United States faces some profound supply
chain problems with microchips in the Auto sector.
Could you give me a perspective of how you might approach
this issue should you be confirmed to be the next Secretary of
Commerce?
Answer. The microchip supply chain is a concern across many
sectors. I support the strategic efforts of NIST, Manufacturing USA,
the Manufacturing Extension Partnership program, and the Department of
Commerce to establish meaningful programs that incentivize competitive
U.S. semiconductor manufacturing and contribute to U.S. economic
security.
Question 6. Artificial intelligence (AI) technology is
proliferating and important considerations are being brought to light
about both the benefits of the technology as well as the challenges.
If confirmed, will you support and prioritize the on-going
work by NIST to create a trustworthy AI framework, and how
specifically will you engage with allies to encourage their
utilization of it?
Answer. If confirmed, I will support, prioritize, and expand upon
the on-going work by NIST to create a trustworthy AI framework.
Question 7. Trade talks with China will be continuing under the new
administration.
Do you support the current round of Tariffs? If so, do you
plan to make changes to the exemption process?
How do you plan to confront Chinese attempts to steal
intellectual property (ITA/I&A/OSIP input on specific IP
aspects inserted below)
Answer. If confirmed, I will encourage the Commerce Department to
continue to apply appropriate measures to counter anti-competitive
behavior by China that hurts American workers and companies. Regarding
intellectual property, Commerce will continue to recognize protection
and enforcement of U.S. intellectual property rights as a trade policy
priority.
______
Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Mike Lee to
Hon. Gina M. Raimondo
Question 1. Governor Raimondo, as Commerce Secretary you will be
charged with overseeing the National Telecommunications and Information
Administration (NTIA), which manages spectrum assignments among Federal
government users.
a. Do you think Federal agencies currently use their spectrum
efficiently?
Answer. Federal agencies engage in an enormous number of spectrum-
dependent missions, of which many are directed by statute or are
critical to the Nation's security, public safety, and well-being,
ranging from national defense, law enforcement, air traffic control,
space exploration, and severe weather detection and warning.
Nevertheless, our Nation continues to drive advances in technology and
innovation. If confirmed, it will be a priority to ensure that our
Federal agencies can leverage technological advances to ensure that
spectrum, a valuable national resource, is used as efficiently as
possible.
b. Should government agencies be immune from oversight of their use
of the electromagnetic spectrum?
Answer. If confirmed, I commit to a transparent Commerce
Department, and I believe our Federal agencies greatly benefit from
proper oversight.
c. I think Congress and Executive Branch agencies need the best
available data to identify inefficiencies in both the Commercial and
Government contexts. Will you support my legislation, the Government
Spectrum Valuation Act, which would require NTIA to calculate the value
or the ``opportunity costs'' associated with Federal spectrum so that
we can make more informed decisions?
Answer. NTIA's technical and scientific spectrum analysts and
engineers are among the best in the world, and rightly so given the
agency's important responsibilities for managing our Nation's Federal
spectrum. If confirmed, I would be happy to work with you on your
legislation.
Question 2. Governor Raimondo, should NTIA or a Federal agency be
able to ``veto'' an FCC decision to license a band for a commercial
purpose, even after those Federal agencies have been able to weigh in
on the FCC's review?
Answer. Under the Biden Administration, we would expect the FCC to
properly coordinate with NTIA prior to the issuance of any decision
implicating the use of Federal spectrum. Such prior coordination
hopefully will preclude the issuance of any decision that improperly
impacts Federal spectrum use.
a. How would you handle disputes with the FCC over the licensing of
a band for a commercial purpose?
Answer. In the event a dispute between the FCC and the NTIA arises,
it is my intention, if confirmed, that such disputes would be resolved
prior to the issuance of any FCC decision.
b. In making spectrum determinations, should NTIA defer to a
Federal agency's spectrum findings or should NTIA make their own
independent, scientific judgments?
Answer. NTIA's technical and scientific spectrum analysts and
engineers are among the best in the world, and rightly so given the
agency's important responsibilities for managing our Nation's Federal
spectrum. NTIA's analyses and conclusions accordingly should be given
extraordinary weight. If NTIA concludes that its own independent,
scientific judgments control on a particular matter, then NTIA should
exercise such.
c. In your opinion, is the current FCC/NTIA Memorandum of
Understanding sufficient to govern interagency spectrum decision-
making?
Answer. If confirmed, I believe it would be appropriate for us to
review the current FCC/NTIA Memorandum of Understanding and consider
suitable, mutually agreeable revisions. It is my understanding that the
MOU is nearly 20 years old, and it seems appropriate for us to examine
lessons learned over these 20 years and see if improvements can be
made.
Question 3. Governor Raimondo, do you agree that China poses both
economic and security threats to the United States?
a. Why has China had such success attracting U.S. businesses--
particularly U.S. manufacturing? And what recommendations will you make
to revive U.S. manufacturing?
b. We know U.S. manufacturing costs are generally higher than China
as well as other Asian markets. What contributes to these costs? Do
U.S. regulations? Do U.S. labor costs? Are there areas of our domestic
laws that make the United States an unattractive market for
manufacturing?
Answer. China does pose both economic and security threats to the
United States, and how we wage competition with China will define this
century.
China has pursued industrial policies that have enabled the unfair
development of its manufacturing sector, which harms U.S. workers and
firms. The Department of Commerce seeks to rebalance the trade
relationship by encouraging U.S. manufacturers to expand their exports
to China and other markets, thus growing the U.S. workforce and economy
as a whole. Chinese economic policies have encouraged excess capacity
in several industry sectors and have subsidized a number of critical
industries in its pursuit of economic growth to the detriment of U.S.
and global interests. I look forward to working with Congress on a
broad range of measures, including proposals under in consideration in
the America LEADS Act and STRATEGIC Act, to boost America's
competitiveness in manufacturing, research and development,
entrepreneurship, and other areas.
Question 4. Governor Raimondo, Article 1, Section 8 of the
Constitution clearly gives Congress the authority to ``lay and collect
taxes, duties, imposts and excises'' and ``to regulate commerce with
foreign nations.'' How do you view Congress' role in levying tariffs
and duties on trade, and would you support Congress exercising
increased control over the approval process for such measures?
a. When should tariffs be imposed? And how do you weigh the costs
of increasing such a trade barrier as opposed to the benefits of free
trade?
b. Do you agree that any broad-based increase in U.S. tariffs tend
to have the biggest negative impact on low-income American households,
which spend a larger share of their budgets on imported shoes,
clothing, food, and household goods?
Answer. President Biden is committed to international trade that
benefits all Americans and that creates high paying jobs here in the
United States. He has asked that we take a step back and review our
approach to trade and trade agreements. If confirmed, I commit to
working with Congress on tariffs and other trade issues to create a
more prosperous America where the benefits of trade are shared equally
by all Americans.
Question 5. Governor Raimondo, one of President Biden's first
executive actions was to reverse President Trump's July memorandum
ordering the U.S. Census Bureau to exclude illegal aliens from the
census count. Last month, the Supreme Court declined to decide the case
because it was not ripe. During oral arguments, it was admitted that
the Census Bureau at the time did not know whether the number of
illegal aliens would affect apportionment. Do you support President
Biden's decision?
a. If the illegal alien population of a particular state was
sufficient enough to affect apportionment, would you at all be
concerned that this illegal activity could benefit certain states with
additional representation in the House of Representatives over others?
b. Do the American people deserve an answer as to whether the
illegal alien population affects the proportion of members in the U.S.
House of Representatives?
Answer. I do support President Biden's Executive Order and believe
that everyone should be counted. I agree that the policy of the United
States should be that reapportionment be consistent with the
Constitution and based on the total number of persons residing in the
several states, without regard for immigration status, as well as with
the determination that it is essential that the census count must be
accurate and based on reliable high-quality data.
Question 6. Governor Raimondo, states oftentimes use Federal money
only for simple projects, for compliance reasons, and they tend to use
their own funds for difficult, complex projects because the regulatory
burden that comes with Federal requirements can raise the cost of the
project by 20 percent. This is especially challenging in my home state
of Utah where most of Utah's land is owned by the Federal government.
As governor, you appeared to champion cutting red tape and slashing
regulations that were getting in the way of private entrepreneurship
and innovation. How would you bring this deregulatory philosophy to the
Department of Commerce?
a. Can you identify any regulations or areas of policymaking at the
Department you would like to see reduced?
Answer. As Governor of Rhode Island, I helped create an environment
where businesses could succeed and create jobs. My state had the
highest unemployment rate in the Nation when I entered office and today
the economy is thriving with much few individuals looking for work. I
support cutting regulation if it is unnecessary, but I also believe
some regulation is vital to a safe and functioning society.
______
Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Ron Johnson to
Hon. Gina M. Raimondo
Question 1. What is the Biden administration's plan for the steel
and aluminum Section 232 tariffs? If confirmed as Secretary of the
Department of Commerce, will you continue the tariffs?
Answer. It is my understanding that Biden Administration will
review the steel and aluminum Section 232 tariffs and that the
President has the authority to make revisions to the tariffs. While it
would be the President's prerogative, if confirmed as Secretary of
Commerce, I would expect that the Department of Commerce will provide
advice and technical assistance in that review and decision.
Question 2. Will you commit to making all Section 232
investigations publicly available within the time-frame required by
law?
Answer. If confirmed, I will review this issue with the Department
of Commerce's (Commerce) Office of General Counsel and ensure that
Commerce complies with all statutory requirements while protecting the
presidential communications privilege and the deliberative process
privilege.
Question 3. Is the Biden administration considering any changes to
the Section 232 exclusions process? If so, what are those changes?
Answer. It is my understanding that the Department continually
reviews the 232 Exclusions Process to identify and implement changes to
improve its efficiency and transparency. I further understand that the
Department of Commerce's timeliness of exclusion decisions has
substantially improved over the past year.
Question 4. As Secretary of Commerce, will you commit to conducting
and publicly releasing a complete analysis on the economic effects to
downstream industries for every Section 232 investigation?
Answer. If confirmed as Secretary, I will work to ensure that all
Section 232 investigations are conducted in accordance with statutory
requirements.
Question 5. Will the Biden administration commit to keeping Huawei
on the designated entities list and designated a national security
threat?
Answer. With respect to Huawei, let me be clear: telecommunications
equipment made by untrusted vendors is a threat to the security of the
U.S. and our allies. We will ensure that American telecommunications
networks do not use equipment from untrusted vendors and will work with
allies to secure their telecommunications networks and make investments
to expand the production of telecommunications equipment by trusted
U.S. and allied companies.
In addition, Huawei's ties to China's military, human right abuses,
and theft of intellectual property have rightly been a source of
bipartisan concern, regulatory action, and legislation in the United
States and among U.S. partners and allies. I also am fully aware of and
support the provisions of the FY2020 NDAA and Secure and Trusted
Telecommunications Networks Act that contain restrictions on Huawei,
and look forward to working closely with the Director of National
Intelligence, Secretary of Defense, and Director of the FBI to ensure
that administration policies and actions related Huawei reflect their
national security concerns and judgements as well.
______
Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Todd Young to
Hon. Gina M. Raimondo
Question 1. President Biden promised the American people that he
would work with our allies to focus on mutual problems and concerns
with respect to trade policy--specifically China's overproduction of
steel and aluminum that undermines global metal industries. China's
unfair trade actions have had a devastating impact on American
businesses and manufacturers. Like previous administrations, President
Biden will have executive authority to impose or remove tariffs. I
support holding China accountable in a way that does not hinder the
growth of American businesses.
Knowing the lengthy list of unfair trade actions committed by
China, can you elaborate on how this administration will hold China
accountable?
If confirmed, what strategies or trade tools (like Section 232
actions) are you considering to spur growth, while simultaneously
keeping China's illegal practices in check.
Answer. The Department of Commerce (Commerce) confronts unfair
trade practices, whether those by China or other countries.
Accordingly, if confirmed, I will employ all relevant and appropriate
trade enforcement mechanisms to protect U.S. interests while
aggressively promoting U.S. exports that benefit American workers and
businesses, particularly our small and medium sized businesses.
In addition, if confirmed, Commerce will continue to rigorously
enforce the U.S. trade laws, including the AD and CVD laws, to help
ensure that U.S. workers, farmers and businesses are not harmed by
unfair imports from China. Commerce is committed to helping all U.S.
companies, and the Department will work diligently to ensure U.S.
companies have the market access and proper protections provided by our
trade agreements.
Question 2. The Department of Commerce promotes job creation and
economic growth, and one way to do that is to work with our trading
partners to promote high intellectual property standards
internationally. Never have the benefits of strong IP been as relevant
as they are today, in how our biopharmaceutical innovators for example,
have worked so quickly to develop a COVID vaccine.
How will you use your role within this administration to ensure
that America's highly innovative industries are treated fairly by our
trading partners in order to support American jobs?
How will you work to ensure that our trading partners are enforcing
existing commitments and deter countries from weakening their standards
in their own IP regimes?
Answer. If confirmed as Secretary of Commerce, I am committed to
ensuring that U.S. trading partners abide by IP-related trade
commitments and to the use of the Department of Commerce (Commerce)
tools and authorities where warranted to bring this about.
Question 3. The Foreign-Trade Zones (FTZ) program within the
Department of Commerce is a tool used by industries to facilitate and
expedite international trade. Special customs procedures are offered as
a public service to help firms conduct international trade related
operations in competition with foreign plants. The FTZ program also
helps attract offshore activity and encourages retention of domestic
activity while assisting state and local economic development efforts.
In your role, how do you envision the role of the FTZ program? Do
you believe the FTZ program is an effective way to attract foreign
direct investment (FDI) and create jobs in the United States?
Answer. If confirmed, I will ensure the effective administration of
the FTZ program to ensure that it continues to support investment and
jobs while safeguarding against potential negative impacts to American
businesses and workers.
Question 4. It is very important to me that we ensure no Hoosier or
American is left behind as we adjust to automation, urbanization, and
globalization in our dynamic economy. Indiana is the most manufacturing
intensive state and as we discussed, your own father lost his
manufacturing job to China.
If confirmed, what steps will you take at the Department of
Commerce to ensure no Americans are left behind by this economic shift?
Answer. As Governor of Rhode Island and in my personal life, I have
seen the impacts on working Americans as our economy has moved away
from a manufacturing economy to one based on services. If confirmed, I
will ensure that the Department of Commerce continues to provide
resources and programs to U.S. businesses and their workers to help
them innovate and grow, especially those in regions and communities
that have often been left behind.
Question 5. Even in the countries where we have free trade
agreements, our companies continue to face trade barriers such as
inadequate intellectual property protections, data localization rules,
and price controls that violate these agreements. Much of the
responsibility of enforcing these agreements and protecting U.S.
businesses falls to the Department of Commerce. Like previous
administrations, President Biden will have executive authority to
impose or remove tariffs. I support holding China accountable in a way
that does not hinder the growth of American businesses.
Can you commit that you will be as vigilant in holding our trading
partners accountable on behalf of our U.S. exporters as the Department
will be in protecting our businesses from imports that violate our laws
and trade agreements?
Answer. Yes. In addition to continuing the strong enforcement of
U.S. trade laws, including the Antidumping and Countervailing Duties
(AD/CVD) laws that protect U.S. firms from unfairly traded imports, if
confirmed, I will ensure the Department of Commerce will work
diligently to ensure U.S. exporters have the market access and proper
protections provided by our trade agreements.
______
Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Rick Scott to
Hon. Gina M. Raimondo
Question 1. Communist China continues to openly flout U.S laws and
refuse to hold up their ends of trade deals with the United States.
They are dead-set on being the dominant world power, and can't be
trusted to play fair. And, every single U.S. dollar spent in China
supports a regime that jails its people for religious beliefs and
denies basic human rights to its citizens.
a. What is your plan to ensure that U.S citizens and taxpayer
dollars are protected from Communist China, and how do you plan to hold
them accountable in any future trade commitments?
Answer. China's aggressive and coercive trade policies hurt
American workers and businesses. Holding China accountable in future
trade commitments requires a whole-of-government approach, in
partnership with the U.S. Trade Representative, the Department of
State, and other U.S. Government agencies, to ensure that U.S. workers
and firms benefit from trade agreements signed with other countries. If
confirmed, I will work diligently to ensure U.S. exporters have the
market access and proper protections provided by our trade agreements.
Question 2. Seasonal produce farmers, especially in my state of
Florida and throughout the southeast, have been badly hurt by unfair
trade practices surrounding Mexican produce imports. While this was not
addressed in the USMCA, I have worked closely with USTR in the past two
years to ensure that this issue is heard and addressed so Florida
growers have the chance to succeed.
a, The Trump Administration made it a priority to ensure every deal
was fair to our Nation's growers. What is your plan to continue this
work so domestic growers can compete on an even playing field?
Answer. If confirmed as Secretary, Commerce will continue its
outreach with growers of seasonal and perishable fruits and vegetables
on unfair trade practices to enhance their understanding of applicable
trade remedy laws and processes and will continue to monitor foreign
subsidy practices that have a direct impact on U.S. producers of
seasonal and perishable fruits and vegetables.
Question 3. I've been fighting to protect American national
security and intellectual property by preventing the U.S. government
from purchasing technology, like drones, with American tax dollars. I
was glad to see the Department of Commerce add Chinese drone company,
DJI to the Entity list because of national security concerns. And
earlier this year, former President Trump issued an EO directing U.S.
agencies to prioritize removing Chinese-made drones from our
government's fleets due to security risks.
a. Can you confirm you plan to keep DJI on the Entity List?
b. What further action can the Commerce Department take against
companies like DJI, and any other Chinese-based company, that pose such
obvious national security threats?
Answer. I understand that parties are placed on the Entity List
generally because they pose a risk to U.S. national security or foreign
policy interests. I currently have no reason to believe that entities
on that list should not be there. If confirmed, I look forward to a
briefing on these entities. I further understand that the Department
has an ongoing process in place to identify and review activities of
entities to determine whether addition to the Entity List is warranted
and that this is an interagency process.
Question 4. Our nation is competing against known adversaries like
Communist China and Russia in the space launch industry, and we must
put American interests and national security first. I co-sponsored the
American Space Commerce Act to bolster the domestic space industry and
to ensure the U.S. remains a leader in space exploration.
a. What is your plan to bolster the domestic space industry?
Answer. I understand the commercial space industry is growing at an
incredible speed--creating jobs, innovating, and fostering public-
private partnerships across the country. I know that NOAA and the
Office of Space Commerce (OSC) play a key role in working with the
commercial space industry. If confirmed, I look forward to learning
more about the Office of Space Commerce and to working with Congress to
ensure that it is properly resourced and can continue to serve this
important function.