Position:
Secretary - Commerce
The secretary is responsible for the smooth running of the Commerce Department, which works on a wide range of activities that contribute to the continued growth of the nation?s economy. He or she is responsible for gathering and developing economic and demographic data for business and government decision-making, helping American firms and consumers benefit from open and fair international trade, issuing patents and trademarks, helping set industrial standards and conducting scientific research, forecasting the weather to improve public safety, and promoting sustainable stewardship of the oceans, including ocean fisheries. The Commerce Department has three strategic goals: Furnish the information and economic framework to enable the U.S. economy to grow, both nationally and globally, provide infrastructure for innovation to enhance American competitiveness, and observe and manage oceanic and atmospheric resources to help ensure sustainable economic opportunities.
Type of Appointment/Position: Presidential with Senate confirmation
Nominations so far:
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Progressive Criteria:
The Department of Commerce will:
Promote commerce to enhance citizens' lives, not simply to enrich investors;
Promote decent, well-paying, environmentally sustainable jobs;
Take the initiative in developing a Genuine Progress Indicator to replace GDP which does not adequately distinguish between good growth and destructive trends; Work to provide new guarantees for pension security;
Support very small businesses, minority and women-owned businesses;
Direct and manage the patent and trademark system to promote the common good by promoting valuable inventions, research and intellectual exchangee, as a higher priority than protecting corporate profits.
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