Commerce Department

The U.S. Commerce Department is a cabinet-level agency of the U.S. government focused on promoting American business and industries. Its responsibilities include gathering economic and demographic data, issuing patents and trademarks, and fostering international trade. The department is newsworthy due to recent economic data releases and personnel changes. Recent data from the department shows the US trade deficit widened sharply in November, reversing a prior month's decrease. This is significant as it impacts economic growth calculations and trade policy discussions. Additionally, a Commerce Department official, Elizabeth “Liz” Cannon, whose office effectively barred many Chinese vehicles from the US market, has resigned. This event raises questions about the administration's trade policies and national security concerns related to foreign commerce. The department's data on consumer spending and GDP growth also highlights the current state of the U.S. economy.