01.25.21

Durbin Discusses COVID-19, Trade, and Census with Gina Raimondo, Biden Nominee for Secretary of Commerce

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) today met with Governor Gina Raimondo (D-RI), President Joe Biden’s nominee for Secretary of Commerce. During their Zoom call, Durbin and Raimondo discussed the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, trade policies that level the playing field for American workers and manufacturers, and ensuring an apolitical count of the 2020 Census. Durbin also spoke about his push for five percent real growth in science agencies for innovation—including programs under the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), and the important role that the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) serves in protecting the Great Lakes. 

“Governor Raimondo is ready to hit the ground running at the Department of Commerce to ensure we are supporting American workers and businesses during the pandemic. With millions out of work and businesses continuing to struggle, the Department of Commerce has an important role to play in providing economic relief during these uncertain times. Additionally, it was great to speak about the importance of improving our trade policies and accurately and fairly counting the 2020 Census,”Durbin said.  

A photo of Durbin’s Zoom meeting is available here. 

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