Trump nominates Jacob Helberg for key economic role at State Department

President-elect Donald Trump announced Jacob Helberg as his nominee for under secretary of state for economic growth, energy, and the environment earlier this week. Helberg, a U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission member and prominent national security author, is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping America’s economic statecraft on the global stage.

“In this role, Jacob will be a champion of our America first foreign policy,” Trump said in a statement. “He will guide State Department policy on economic statecraft, promoting America’s economic security and growth and American technological dominance abroad.”

Trump praised Helberg as a seasoned technology executive with the expertise to defend America’s economic interests and advance U.S. priorities internationally.

Helberg expressed his gratitude for the nomination, writing, “I am deeply honored and humbled by President Trump’s trust. His historic landslide election gave new hope and strength to the American people and was a reminder that brighter days are ahead both at home and abroad.”

A staunch supporter of Israel, Helberg has previously called Trump “the most pro-Israel president in history.” In an interview with JNS this past July, Helberg highlighted Trump’s landmark initiatives, including relocating the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem, recognizing Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights, and spearheading the Abraham Accords.

“Anyone who cares about Israel recognizes that,” Helberg said at the time.

Helberg also noted Trump’s consistent support for Israel in the face of regional threats, such as Iran, and his efforts to counter the recent surge in antisemitism on U.S. college campuses.

“In the wake of the Oct. 7 massacre and the rise of antisemitism on college campuses across the U.S., I have no doubt that President Trump’s support for Israel will be just as resolute,” Helberg stated.

Known for his expertise at the intersection of technology and security, Helberg has advised on critical issues such as U.S.-China relations and the global tech landscape. His nomination signals a continued focus on safeguarding American technological innovation while bolstering economic partnerships that align with national security objectives.

Helberg’s confirmation is likely to reinforce U.S. policies aimed at fostering economic resilience and strengthening the alliance between the United States and its partners, particularly Israel.

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