Criticized for ship holdings, Ross owns more than previously known and the deals continueTom Scheck and Maria Curi, APM Reports, November 8, 2017 Most of the 75 ships transport oil and gas products worldwide, presenting a conflict of interest for the commerce secretary as he negotiates trade deals. Records show 11 purchases since March. Ross has come under fire for not disclosing Russia-tied ship business and a U.S. senator wants an investigation.