Houston mogul Tilman Fertitta has been officially confirmed by the U.S. Senate as ambassador to Italy and San Marino, marking a new chapter for the billionaire businessman and owner of the Houston Rockets.
Tilman Fertitta, a prominent figure in the Houston restaurant and hospitality industry, has received official confirmation from the U.S. Senate to serve as the United States ambassador to Italy and San Marino.
The announcement came Tuesday evening, marking a significant milestone in Fertitta's career. Fertitta's appointment was confirmed with an 83-13 vote, despite opposition from a coalition of progressive Democrats and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer.
Fertitta, 66, told senators earlier this month that taking on the ambassador role would be "the most important job of my life." He committed to representing the United States and President Donald Trump "with dignity, pride, friendship, and strength."
Texas Senator John Cornyn, an influential supporter, highlighted Fertitta's strong familial connections to Italy. Fertitta's lineage traces back to Sicily, where his ancestors emigrated to Galveston, Texas. In this city, he was born and subsequently established a vast business empire, encompassing over 600 restaurants, casinos, and entertainment venues. Cornyn lauded him as "one of the nation's most prominent businessmen."
Fertitta's announcement indicates that he will relinquish his daily leadership role at Fertitta Entertainment LLC, a company valued at $6 billion. The portfolio features Landry’s Inc., the Golden Nugget Casinos, and other business ventures. He will continue to own the Houston Rockets, despite stepping down from various business and philanthropic positions in compliance with federal ethics regulations.
The journey to Rome began last December, following President-elect Trump's nomination of Fertitta for the position. Fertitta stands out as a significant political donor in Texas, having invested millions into both political parties throughout the years, with a notable emphasis on supporting Republican figures such as Governor Greg Abbott.
In a notable development, Fertitta's confirmation received strong bipartisan backing, overcoming opposition from progressive senators including Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders.
The recent appointment brought another prominent business figure into Trump's diplomatic team, as the administration aimed to bolster relations with Italy, an essential NATO ally.
Following the finalization of his Senate approval, Fertitta is set to transition from the familiar settings of boardrooms and basketball arenas to the iconic corridors of Rome.
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