Washington, DC – U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer today released the following statement regarding USTR General Counsel Stephen P. Vaughn, who will departing USTR in the coming weeks. He will be replaced as General Counsel by Joseph L. Barloon.
“From the beginning of the Trump Administration and the many years I have worked with him before, Stephen Vaughn has been a principled leader, a trusted advisor, and an expert attorney advancing fair trade in the interest of working Americans. Stephen has played a central role in shaping and implementing the President’s trade policies, especially related to China and the World Trade Organization. I am deeply grateful for Stephen’s service to our country, including his leadership as Acting USTR during the first few months of the Administration. Stephen and his family have my warmest wishes as Stephen moves on to his next venture.
“I am pleased to welcome another highly-respected attorney as USTR’s next General Counsel, Joe Barloon. Joe comes to USTR with over 20 years of experience, specializing in government enforcement actions as well as civil and criminal investigations and actions. Joe brings legal expertise and sound judgement. He will be a valued addition in our effort to pursue the President’s trade agenda in rebalancing and reforming global trade. I look forward to working with Joe as USTR continues trade negotiations and enforcement efforts around the world on behalf of America’s farmers, ranchers, workers and businesses.”
About Joseph L. Barloon:
Joseph Barloon has been a partner at Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP for more than a decade. Previously, Joe was a law clerk for the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit. He holds an A.B. from Harvard University, an M.A. from the University of Pennsylvania, and a J.D. from Georgetown University Law Center.
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