US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick is facing scrutiny over chip export controls after reports about Nvidia co-founder Jensen Huang prompted questions in Congress.
The report said allegations that Lutnick mishandled oversight of chip exports could put his job at risk. It said members of Congress questioned why Nvidia sold chips to a company reportedly linked to suspected Chinese espionage. US media had described the controversy as a White House scandal.
Huang, 63, stepped down amid mounting pressure after reports about his relationship with a Chinese businesswoman whom US authorities reportedly suspect of spying for China. Beijing denied the allegation, according to the Associated Press.
Nvidia confirmed on November 12 that Huang had resigned as president, chief executive and board member with immediate effect. Identified him as the company’s fourth-largest investor. Nvidia named chief financial officer Colette Kress interim CEO while it searches for a permanent successor.
