President Trump has nominated Florida businessman Lee Lipton to be the next U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines, a key post amid growing competition in the Indo-Pacific.
Lipton currently serves as interim U.S. representative to the Organization of American States, where he manages staff, oversees finances, and coordinates with federal agencies to advance U.S. foreign policy in the Western Hemisphere. In this role, he has worked to address regional instability, including the crisis in Haiti, and to counter the influence of the Chinese Communist Party within the OAS.
Before joining the OAS mission, Lipton founded and led a New York–based apparel company that designed, manufactured, and marketed licensed collections for prominent brands, including Calvin Klein, St. John Knits, and Guess. After selling the firm to a public company, he moved into hospitality, owning oceanfront restaurants in Florida, including Benny’s, one of Palm Beach County’s busiest dining spots.
Lipton, a longtime Mar-a-Lago member and close friend of Trump, is a political outsider with over 30 years of experience in the private sector and has long advised the president informally. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Bryant University and has been married to Erika Lipton for about 45 years, with whom he has two sons.
The Philippines plays a vital role in U.S. Indo-Pacific strategy as a key treaty ally central to countering China’s territorial ambitions in the South China Sea and upholding regional security and freedom of navigation.
Lipton’s nomination comes amid rising tensions — including maritime disputes, increased Chinese activity near Philippine waters, and concerns over Beijing’s influence operations.
In recent months, Washington has reaffirmed its defense commitments, expanded base access, and strengthened security and intelligence coordination with Manila.
His nomination, submitted to the Senate on Wednesday, awaits confirmation.
TRUMP NOMINATES NEW US AMBASSADOR TO PH
UPDATE: US President Donald Trump nominates businessman-turned-diplomat Lee Lipton as the next US ambassador to the Philippines, replacing MaryKay Carlson.
Lipton currently serves as Interim Permanent Representative to the US Mission to… pic.twitter.com/J6u05q6Tb5
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