Michael W. Moynihan

Michael W. Moynihan
Born	c. 1928 Teaneck, New Jersey, U.S.
Died	Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, U.S.
Occupation(s)	Government official, trade advocate, consultant
Known for	Popularizing the phrase "a rising tide lifts all boats"; spokesperson for Office of the United States Trade Representative; Public Affairs Director at Port Authority of New York and New Jersey; U.S. delegate to OECD

Michael W. Moynihan (circa 1928 – November 12, 1996) was a notable proponent of free trade who held positions within the U.S. government and various international trade bodies. He was the younger sibling of Daniel Patrick Moynihan.

Early life and education

Moynihan was born in Teaneck, New Jersey and spent his formative years in Long Island City. He completed his bachelor's degree at City College of New York and obtained a master's degree from the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy.

Professional career

During the Kennedy White House, Moynihan acted as the spokesperson for the Office of the United States Trade Representative. Subsequently, he held a communications role at the Agency for International Development. He is recognized for popularizing the expression "a rising tide lifts all boats" in a 1963 address delivered on behalf of President Kennedy at a General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade meeting, which initiated the Kennedy round of trade talks.

Following his governmental tenure, Moynihan was appointed Public Affairs Director at the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. Later, he established a consultancy focused on international affairs and lobbying efforts. His consulting engagements with the government of Saudi Arabia drew criticism, although he rejected allegations concerning potential conflicts linked to his brother’s Senate position.

In the 1980s, Moynihan became the first information director and served as the U.S. delegate to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development .

Death

He passed away at age 68 at his residence in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, on November 12, 1996.