East Idaho Times

U.S. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo recently addressed the nominations of William Kimmitt and Kenneth Kies at a hearing. Kimmitt has been nominated to serve as Under Secretary of Commerce for International Trade, while Kies is nominated for the position of Assistant Treasury Secretary for Tax Policy.

Crapo began the hearing by thanking both nominees for their willingness to serve. He outlined the responsibilities that would fall to Kimmitt if confirmed, mentioning his role in overseeing the Department of Commerce's International Trade Administration (ITA). Crapo emphasized that the ITA's work to promote market access and address unfair trade practices is vital to American prosperity. He expressed confidence that Kimmitt's background would enable him to make significant contributions to trade.

Turning to the nomination of Kenneth Kies, Crapo described the duties of the Assistant Secretary for Tax Policy. Kies would serve as a senior advisor at the Treasury Department regarding federal tax policies. Crapo underscored the importance of pro-growth tax policies and highlighted the Republican commitment to preventing tax hikes and delivering tax relief to middle-class workers.

Crapo also noted the achievements of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) of 2017, which he said fostered economic growth and increased take-home pay, suggesting that making this policy permanent would provide stability for businesses and families. Crapo commended Kies’ extensive experience in tax policy, mentioning his past roles and involvement in significant federal tax legislation.

The hearing concluded with Crapo expressing his eagerness to work with both nominees, contingent on their confirmation, to continue advancing economic policies.