Statement from MPAA Chairman and CEO Senator Chris Dodd in support of Robert Lighthizer for USTR

WASHINGTON – The following is a statement from Senator Chris Dodd, Chairman and CEO of the Motion Picture Association of America, in support of President Donald Trump’s appointment of Robert E. Lighthizer for United States Trade Representative (USTR).

“The MPAA applauds the Senate Finance Committee for unanimously approving the nomination of Robert Lighthizer to serve as the next USTR. The American film and television industry is a key driver of the U.S. economy, and effective trade policies are crucial to its continued success. Our sector employs two million American workers, while generating $17.8 billion in exports and registering a positive trade balance with nearly every country around the world.

“The USTR plays a critical role in fostering America’s creative industries by negotiating and enforcing trade agreements that protect U.S. intellectual property rights and expand access to foreign markets. Mr. Lighthizer’s extensive experience will enable him to be immediately engaged on the numerous issues facing USTR and makes him well-qualified to work with Congress and other key government agencies on trade policies that benefit consumers, creators, and the national economy.

“The MPAA encourages the Senate to confirm Mr. Lighthizer as quickly as possible, and looks forward to working with him and his USTR team.”

About the MPAA
The Motion Picture Association of America, Inc. (MPAA) serves as the voice and advocate of the American motion picture, home video and television industries from its offices in Los Angeles and Washington, D.C. Its members include: Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures; Paramount Pictures Corporation; Sony Pictures Entertainment Inc.; Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation; Universal City Studios LLC; and Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc.

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For more information, contact:

MPAA Washington, D.C.

Chris Ortman
(202) 293-1966
Chris_Ortman@motionpictures.org