President-elect Donald Trump has chosen Mark Burnett, the renowned producer of “The Apprentice,” to play a vital role as the special envoy to the United Kingdom. Burnett, previously at the helm of MGM’s television studio, boasts multiple Emmy awards for hit shows like “Survivor,” “Shark Tank,” and “The Voice.” Through “The Apprentice,” Burnett sculpted Trump’s image post-bankruptcy, propelling him into the limelight as a prominent Manhattan tycoon.
Mark Burnett’s Appointment
Trump praised Burnett’s appointment, stating, “With a distinguished career in television production and business, Mark brings a unique blend of diplomatic acumen and international recognition to this important role,” in a social media post on Truth Social.
As a UK native, Burnett will focus on bolstering diplomatic ties, emphasizing mutual interests such as trade, investment opportunities, and cultural exchanges, marking his first foray into diplomatic service.
Promoting Bilateral Commerce
While the specifics of Burnett’s responsibilities remain unclear, there are hints at a focus on enhancing trade and investment relations between the U.S. and the UK. This initiative gains significance following the UK’s exit from the European Union in 2020.
Various British administrations have advocated for a free trade agreement with the United States to offset economic repercussions post-Brexit. Despite this, discussions on a trade deal have been sluggish under both the Trump and Biden administrations.
Trade Deal Prospects
In 2024, Trump’s advisors signaled a US-UK trade deal as a top priority. However, President Biden’s administration deferred talks on a trade agreement with the UK, disappointing then-Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.
It remains to be seen if Burnett will undergo Senate confirmation, a requirement for special envoys. Given his non-controversial image, Senate Republicans are likely to support his appointment.
