Nippon Steel hires Pompeo to take over US steel mill; Pompeo’s insight on safety challenges sought

NEW YORK — Nippon Steel Corp. said Saturday it has hired former U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo as an adviser on its takeover of United States Steel Corp. With the U.S. presidential election in November, the takeover has become a political issue and Pompeo’s appointment is intended to facilitate coordination of the purchase’s completion.

Nippon Steel said Pompeo is “respected” by both Republicans and Democrats. The company added that he has unparalleled insight into the security challenges facing the United States. “We will work together to strengthen the U.S. economy and national security through this acquisition,” Nippon Steel said.