Political Quotes

“let me first say that I thank Senator Wyden for his hard work. I am one of those who believe it is important for Congress to pass trade promotion authority. I don't believe we can complete the TPP without trade promotion authority. I think TPP is an important strategic partnership for the United States as well as an economic partnership for the United States. Having said that, I listened carefully to Senator Wyden where the administration has raised an objection to a particular amendment and saying if that gets on the bill, they would veto the trade promotion authority. I say that because many of us who support TPA have said: Look, let's make sure we get it right. Let's make sure that we have an open amendment process so that we can try to make this the strongest possible bill, because we don't get that many opportunities to take up trade legislation. I just mention that because yes, I come to the floor to say that we need trade promotion authority. When you look at the fact that we are a democracy with separation of the branches of government, we cannot negotiate--535 of us--with our trading partners and enter into an agreement. We have to delegate that negotiating authority, and that is what TPA does. At the time we delegate that, we also must make it clear what our trade objectives are about, and we also must take advantage of that opportunity to protect workers' rights legitimately and make sure we have a level playing field for American companies.…”