20 Jan 2021

Liddell reportedly pulls out of race for OECD top job

1:17 pm on 20 January 2021

New Zealander Chris Liddell, a top Trump advisor, is reportedly withdrawing his candidacy to become secretary general of the OECD.

Chris Liddell pictured in 2018.

Chris Liddell pictured in 2018. Photo: AFP

Liddell was nominated for the top job by the US president last year.

According to the Bloomberg Liddell has told associates he intends to withdraw from consideration to lead the Paris-based organisation.

Last week, National and ACT rescinded their backing for Liddell following the 6 January riots at the US Capitol.

National Party leader Judith Collins said Liddell's ties to the Trump administration could not be overlooked, "making it difficult to see how he would be suitable to uphold the OECD's strong commitment to democracy".

ACT leader David Seymour also said the party could no longer support Liddell's nomination.

In October, the Green Party urged the government not to support Liddell for the OECD position, saying "Trumpish anti-science, anti-cooperation politics" had no place in international governance.

Liddell is assistant to the president and deputy chief of staff and has stayed on at the White House for the transition of power.