Political Quotes

“I rise today to express my strong support for the renewal of Trade Adjustment Assistance programs which for decades have served as a critical lifeline for thousands of Mainers whose jobs have been adversely affected by increases in foreign imports and shifts in production overseas. During my entire tenure in Congress, I have worked tirelessly with my colleagues to reform and expand TAA programs to assist workers, businesses, and communities harmed by trade liberalization in competing in an increasingly global marketplace. And frankly if there were ever a moment to rebuild and equip our workforce to make greater strides when it comes to competing in the global economy is there any doubt, that time is now? Consider that China will surpass the U.S. economically in 2016--a mere five years from now--according to the International Monetary Fund. Consider that the total U.S. international trade deficit for 2010 was $497 billion, up from $374 billion in 2009. And our trade deficit with China increased from $226 billion in 2009 to $273 billion in 2010--a 20-percent increase in just 1 year alone! Whoever is elected President in 2012 will be the last President to preside over a U.S. economy on top of China's if we continue with our current policies, which, in large part are fueling our decline and China's rise.…”