Political Quotes

“I wish to join my colleagues in voicing my opposition to granting fast-track authority. I oppose the procedures contained in the bill, and I am seriously concerned about using fast- track to pass trade agreements that don't reflect the best interests of the American people and can undermine the prerogatives of the Congress. Some who support fast-track would have us believe that opposing this bill and TPP means opposition to a free market, to trade, and to commerce; but that is not true. Commerce is essential, and we should be promoting it. But corporate interests should not be the driving force for public policy decisions on public health, consumer safety, and the environment. Just this week, a WTO ruling on our country-of-origin food labeling law provided a striking example of how what is called free trade can be used to erode consumer protection. The country-of-origin labeling law was passed by Congress, and it requires producers of meat and chicken to provide information to consumers on where the animal was raised and slaughtered. If we ask most people, they would say they want to know if their beef is from Texas or from Taiwan. And even if one isn't particularly passionate about that issue, I think most people would agree that it is squarely within the prerogatives and the constitutional duties of the U.S. Congress to decide. Consumers in the U.S. want to know where their food comes from.…”