The Rise of a Political Commentator

Steve Cortes has carved a unique path through the worlds of finance and politics, establishing himself as a prominent conservative commentator. His career is marked by a rare blend of Wall Street acumen and sharp political strategy.

Today, he is widely recognized for his vocal support of America First policies and his work as the founder of the League of American Workers. His journey includes high-profile roles in media and presidential campaigns, making him a significant voice in modern American conservatism.

Educational Foundation and Early Career

Cortes built his foundation at Georgetown University, where he was not only a dedicated student but also a collegiate football player. His academic excellence was notable, earning him a nomination for the prestigious Rhodes Scholarship.

This early combination of discipline and intellectual rigor set the stage for a dynamic career that would span two distinct but interconnected fields. His time at Georgetown provided the launching pad for his future endeavors in both finance and public life.

Building a Wall Street Legacy

Before becoming a household name in political circles, Steve Cortes spent 25 years on Wall Street. He developed deep expertise in trading interest rates, equity ETFs, and currencies for a range of institutional clients.

His financial career was distinguished by his entrepreneurial spirit, leading him to form his own independent company. He later concluded his tenure on Wall Street as the Chief Strategist for BGC Partners, where he specialized in providing sophisticated risk management strategies to banks and hedge funds.

Transition to Media and Broadcasting

Cortes’s transition into media began while he was still active in finance. He became a familiar face on CNBC, frequently appearing as a commentator on the network’s popular “Fast Money” franchise.

His insightful analysis and clear communication style quickly gained traction, leading to broadcast contracts with other major news outlets, including Fox News and CNN. This period established him as a trusted expert on financial markets and economic issues, paving the way for his later shift into political commentary.

The Trump Campaign Years

Steve Cortes became a prominent figure in national politics during the 2016 presidential election, serving as a key television surrogate for the Trump campaign. His articulate defense of the campaign’s platform made him a go-to voice for the movement.

His role expanded significantly in the 2020 campaign, where he served as Senior Spokesman and Strategist. In this capacity, he was instrumental in shaping the campaign’s messaging and outreach efforts, particularly with key demographics.

Champion of Hispanic American Interests

As the son of a Latin immigrant, Cortes has been a passionate advocate for Hispanic American communities. He was appointed to President Trump’s National Hispanic Advisory Council, where he worked to align policy with the interests of Latino voters.

His outreach efforts were credited with helping to shift voting patterns and build conservative support among Hispanic Americans. His work earned him recognition as one of the most influential and articulate Latino voices in the conservative movement.

League of American Workers and Political Advocacy

In 2023, Cortes founded the League of American Workers, an organization dedicated to promoting what he describes as “pro-worker patriotic populism.” The group focuses on advocating for policies that support American labor and manufacturing.

The League is also involved with Project 2025, a conservative initiative aimed at preparing for future presidential administrations. Through extensive polling and media outreach, Cortes continues to push for an America First agenda, with a particular focus on engaging young and working-class voters.

Current Influence and Media Presence

Steve Cortes remains an active and influential figure in conservative politics. He continues to provide political commentary, hosts a radio show, and is a sought-after speaker at events across the country.

In addition to his advocacy work, he runs Veracruz, LLC, a boutique consultancy that offers insights to institutional investors. His ability to navigate the intersection of markets and politics keeps him at the forefront of national conversations.

Personal Life and Legacy

Beyond his public profile, Steve Cortes is a family man. He and his wife, Holly, are the parents of four children and currently reside in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

His legacy is one of a dedicated professional who successfully bridged two demanding fields. By blending his financial expertise with his political convictions, Cortes has built a career that continues to shape and influence the American conservative landscape.