Rep. Chu Welcomes Michelle K. Lee as Director of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office

Washington, DC – Today, the U.S. Senate confirmed Michelle K. Lee by voice vote to be the Under Secretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property and Director of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Members of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) released the following statements:

Congresswoman Judy Chu (CA-27), CAPAC Chair:

“I congratulate Michelle Lee on her confirmation as the new Under Secretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property and Director of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Her historic confirmation is an important step forward for the Asian American and Pacific Islander community and marks the first time in history that a woman of color will lead the USPTO.

“With over two decades of experience in property and patent law, I have no doubt that Michelle will continue to be a great asset to the Department of Commerce as it works to promote industrial and technological progress and strengthen our national economy. I look forward to our continued work together in her new role.”