What exactly did Thomas Massie call for?

Thomas Massie urged Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick to resign, citing newly released Epstein files that show post-2005 contacts and a 2012–2014 Adfin investment. His push could trigger oversight activity and leadership churn at Commerce, raising short-term uncertainty for export controls, trade cases, and corporate process timing that markets track closely.

How could this affect Canadian exporters?

If Commerce slows reviews or shifts priorities, duty rates, licensing guidance, and standards work could face delays. Canadian firms in autos, aerospace, energy equipment, lumber, and metals might see longer lead times, higher working capital needs for deposits, or re-pricing of contracts tied to U.S. determinations and export classifications.

What timeline risks should investors consider now?

Watch for hearing dates, interim leadership announcements, and the cadence of Federal Register notices. Even a few weeks’ delay in anti-dumping reviews or export guidance can impact quarter-end shipments and margins. If attention rises, assume slower processing and plan bids, inventory, and delivery buffers around that scenario.

What are practical steps for portfolios with U.S. exposure?

List SKUs needing export classifications or duty rulings, and check contract terms for delivery penalties. Build small buffers for deposits tied to duty cases. Track agency FAQs and company updates on lead times. Consider supplier diversification and assess CAD sensitivity to policy headlines that could shift risk sentiment.

Law and Government

February 9: Massie Urges Lutnick Resignation, Epstein Files Shake Trade Policy

ByDanny Kontos February 9, 2026February 9, 2026

Thomas Massie urged Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick to resign on February 9 after new Epstein files showed post-2005 contacts and a 2012–2014 Adfin investment. The call raises near-term risk around U.S. trade, export controls, and corporate approval timelines. For Canadian investors, any slowdown or shift at Commerce could touch cross-border supply chains, tariff reviews, and licensing. We explain the event, the channels that matter to Canada, and the indicators to watch as Thomas Massie keeps pressure on policy and oversight.