By Maggie Johnson
January 23, 2025
Image Credit: “Commissioner Sola in Long Beach with Queen Mary in background,” available at Yahoo Images (01/23/2025).
President Donald J. Trump has named Louis E. Sola the new Chairman of the Federal Maritime Commission, the independent federal agency tasked with regulating international ocean transportation. The Commission is pivotal in ensuring fair and efficient international trade, overseeing issues such as port operations, shipping alliances, and competition among ocean carriers. Sola’s appointment, effective January 20, 2025, marks a leadership transition as he succeeds Daniel B. Maffei.
With his diverse professional background, Sola will serve as the Commission's chief executive and administrative officer. His career spans a 12-year tenure in Army counterintelligence, followed by accomplishments in consulting and yacht sales. Before joining the FMC, he served on the Florida Board of Pilot Commissioners, where he [insert specific achievements], gaining valuable insight into maritime operations.
“There are many ways the Commission contributes to the competitiveness of American businesses, access to foreign markets for U.S. vessels and companies, and economic growth for the Nation,” Sola stated. He emphasized a steadfast commitment to continuing this critical work while seeking new opportunities to leverage the Commission’s authority to benefit U.S. companies and consumers.
Sola expressed deep gratitude to his predecessor, Daniel Maffei, for his tireless efforts in addressing supply chain congestion, a significant challenge during Maffei’s tenure. “I appreciate all the good work my colleague Daniel Maffei accomplished during his time as Chairman,” Sola remarked, acknowledging the progress made under Maffei’s leadership.
Sola’s relationship with the FMC began in November 2018, when President Trump nominated him to serve as Commissioner. Following Senate confirmation, he assumed the role in January 2019. His predecessor, Daniel Maffei, has served under both Republican and Democratic administrations. Initially nominated by President Obama in 2016, Maffei was reconfirmed by the Senate in May 2024, underscoring the strong bipartisan confidence in his leadership.
Sola’s appointment represents continuity and change, blending respect for the agency’s past achievements with a vision for its future.
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