Crapo Statement at Executive Session to Consider USTR, HHS Nominations

Washington, D.C.—U.S. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) delivered the following remarks at an executive session to consider the nominations of Bryan Switzer to be Deputy United States Trade Representative (USTR), Gustav Chiarello to be Assistant Secretary for Financial Resources at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and Michael Stuart to be General Counsel at HHS.

As prepared for delivery:

“We meet today to consider favorably reporting the nominations of Rick Switzer to be a Deputy United States Trade Representative, Gus Chiarello to be Assistant Secretary for Financial Resources (ASFR) at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and Mike Stuart to be General Counsel of HHS.

“The meeting this morning will provide members with the opportunity to offer remarks on the nominees. Following statements, we will recess briefly then proceed to this morning’s hearing with Secretary Kennedy. Later today, we will notify members of the time and location of the vote on these nominations.

“At his hearing, Mr. Switzer discussed his commitment to trade policies and practices that place the American economy and the American worker first. I look forward to working with him, if confirmed, to ensure that our trade policy prioritizes U.S. competitiveness, spurs job creation and promotes innovation.

“Mr. Chiarello and Mr. Stuart discussed the critical issues in our health care system, including soaring costs, a burdensome drug approval process and the opioid crisis. If confirmed, both Mr. Chiarello and Mr. Stuart will have the opportunity to advise Secretary Kennedy on potential solutions. Given their respective backgrounds, I am confident in their ability to provide thoughtful counsel to the Secretary.

“I will be voting in favor of each nomination and I encourage all of my colleagues on the Committee to do the same.

“I now recognize Ranking Member Wyden for his remarks.”

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