To the Members of the United States Senate:
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce supports the nomination of Reta Jo Lewis to serve as President and Chair of the Export-Import Bank of the United States (“Ex-Im").
Ex-Im plays a vital role supporting U.S. exporters by leveling the trade finance playing field for American companies. Without Ex-Im’s support, U.S. exporters are competing for customers with one arm tied behind their backs.
Senate-confirmed leadership is crucial to ensuring a robust role for Ex-Im in restoring economic growth and job creation in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Ex-Im reported a backlog of $39 billion in projects in its financing pipeline awaiting approvals at the end of 2020, and a significant share of this backlog remains. Expediting these projects will support good American jobs. Additionally, confirming Ms. Lewis will ensure that many of the reforms Congress has mandated are fully implemented, including the Program on China and Transformational Exports.
The Chamber urges you to support the nomination of Ms. Lewis to serve as President and Chair of the Ex-Im.
Sincerely,
Neil L. Bradley
Executive Vice President, Chief Policy Officer
and Head of Strategic Advocacy
U.S. Chamber of Commerce
