Apple Hires Trump's Closest Ally: What Is Jeffrey Miller's New Role?

Apple Inc. is prepared to spend millions to bolster efforts by lobbyist Jeff Miller, a long-time Trump ally and Republican fundraiser, to argue its case for lower tariffs in Congress and the White House.

A lobbying registration form filed with the federal government shows Apple hiring Miller and his lobbying firm, Miller Strategies, LLC, for “trade issues as they relate to technological goods and services.” Miller’s firm registered to lobby for Apple in October but only signed the disclosure on Thursday.

Apple hasn't revealed the specific nature of Miller’s role as it relates to trade issues bedeviling Apple, which produces practically all of its popular Apple iPhones in China. Apple has been hit by Trump's tariff war against China and has been spared from more costly damage because of CEO Tim Cook's close relationship with president Donald Trump.

Rumors swirled earlier this week that both leaders will tour Apple's new company-owned facility in Austin, Texas slated to produce the new and pricey $6,000 Mac Pro desktop computers. Apple first made this announcement on September 23, a few days after the Office of the United States Trade Representative announced a federal product exclusion approving 10 out of 15 requests by Apple for China tariff exemptions for some key components.

A staunch Republican, Miller is the founder of Miller Strategies. This firm calls itself "a full-service government relations firm dedicated to effective strategy and advocacy, and uniquely positioned to help clients navigate the complexities of the Administration and Congress."

Miller Strategies has provided strategic counsel to prominent political figures and Fortune 500 companies. Jeff Miller has 25 years of experience in Republican leadership roles. In this time span, Miller has built a reputation as a nationally respected Republican strategist, fundraiser, and public affairs advisor.

Media have described Miller as “very influential in Washington, a leading fundraiser,” and a “powerbroker.” Miller served as vice finance chair of the 58th Presidential Inaugural Committee, political advisor for Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy, finance chair for the California Republican Party, and political advisor to former Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, among others.