Political Quotes

“Mr. President, I rise today to seek unanimous consent for my STABLE Trade Policy Act with Senator Kaine, an act that would prevent any President from imposing tariffs on a U.S. ally or a free- trade agreement partner without congressional consent. I will make that motion in just a moment, but let me, first, just explain what this is and why I am doing it. Next week, President Trump has announced plans to impose 25-percent tariffs on products coming into the United States from Mexico and Canada, our No. 1 and No. 2 trading partners. These tariffs will be disastrous for our economy and our national security. These tariffs will cost the average American household about $1,200 a year. They will raise costs for avocados, appliances, diesel fuel, dog toys, car parts, Christmas tree lights, tomatoes, and tequila. I could go on. Our economies are so closely integrated--the United States, Canada, and Mexico--that it will increase the cost of a GM pickup truck about $10,000. Even if these tariffs, at the last minute, are delayed, businesses are hurt by the uncertainty, which continues to increase costs. President Trump plans to follow those tariffs with reciprocal tariffs on the EU, which includes many of our critical NATO allies and closest partners. Imposing tariffs on our allies and partners diminishes our standing in the world and makes our neighbors less likely to help us in the future. It is no surprise that Americans think this is a terrible idea.…”