A new profile in The New Yorker, published on July 21, 2025, reports that President Donald Trump regularly makes late-night phone calls to Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick after midnight, often just after Lutnick has gone to bed. These calls have become a routine part of the Trump administration, covering topics from policy issues to informal discussions.
Lutnick mentioned that their conversations range from significant subjects like Canadian steel tariffs to lighter topics, including sports events, dinner companions, and television commentary. Trump often seeks Lutnick’s feedback on press conferences and social media activity during these late-night discussions.
The 64-year-old former CEO of Cantor Fitzgerald acknowledged that Trump follows a similar pattern with other acquaintances, though he did not specify who else receives these calls. This practice reflects Trump’s previous habit of making late-night calls to media figures and allies during his first term.
Lutnick’s connection with Trump extends beyond official duties. They have known each other since Lutnick’s time at Cantor Fitzgerald, and he appeared on Trump’s television show “Celebrity Apprentice.” Despite supporting Hillary Clinton in 2016, Lutnick emerged as a significant fundraiser for Trump’s 2024 campaign and served as co-chair of his transition team.
This year, Lutnick purchased the former Washington, D.C., home of Fox News anchor Bret Baier for $25 million, relocating to the capital to join the administration. The home includes valuable artworks by artists like Mark Rothko and Willem de Kooning. Last week, Trump celebrated his birthday at a private dinner at Lutnick’s residence.
Lutnick initially pursued the role of Treasury Secretary but was appointed to the Commerce Department in February after lobbying efforts. He sees himself as Trump’s chief dealmaker, attributing this to his business background. He told The New Yorker he understands Trump’s thinking and can predict his decisions.
However, Lutnick has faced criticism from within Trump’s circle. Sources have described him as an “errand boy,” a “non-stop” talker, and suggested he lacks the intellectual capacity of Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. Some argue that while Lutnick’s personality suits Trump, Bessent offers more substantial expertise.
The Commerce Secretary faced Trump’s frustration over the “reciprocal tariffs” announced on April 2, promoted as policies to “Liberate America.” These tariffs used a complex and criticized formula based on trade deficits and import volumes. When Trump demanded an explanation, Lutnick admitted he was unsure of the methodology but was still tasked with defending it publicly.
Lutnick has been a vocal supporter of Trump’s trade policies, though his messaging has occasionally been inconsistent. In a recent congressional hearing, he puzzled Republican senators by appearing unfamiliar with certain trade laws within his department’s purview. The profile noted that throughout public appearances in Washington, D.C., people frequently approach Lutnick for assistance on various issues.
The New Yorker article compares Trump and Lutnick, suggesting both men have been excluded from elite Manhattan social circles despite their wealth. A source close to Lutnick said that while middle America sees them as successful figures, New York’s elite remains dismissive of their influence.
Trump has publicly commended Lutnick’s business instincts and often includes him in White House activities. While the president describes him as having significant business acumen, others within the administration question whether Lutnick is a serious policy actor or primarily serves Trump’s personal interests. The late-night calls appear to fulfill both official duties and Trump’s desire for casual conversation and validation of his public appearances.