Political Quotes

“Colombia is a key ally of the United States and the third-largest export market in Latin America for U.S. goods and services, and that's despite having tariff barriers in place. This agreement was negotiated in good faith years ago. Basically, American credibility is on the line--our credibility as to whether or not we will follow through with our commitments. After years of delay, U.S. businesses, farmers, and ranchers have been losing market share because of the inability to move forward on this agreement. In 2008, U.S. agricultural producers had 71 percent of that market. By 2010, we were down to 27 percent, and we're still dropping. And that's because other countries who have fulfilled agreements with Colombia, after we have already negotiated this, have gained that market share. They have picked up the market share we have lost. Passing this agreement is a very important step in reversing this onerous trend for our farmers, our ranchers, and our businesses in this country. Colombia is currently the tenth-largest export market in my home State of Louisiana, and it stands to grow as a result. Pass this agreement.”