Political Quotes

“first off, I agree with Senator Brown and Senator Hatch on how important this debate before us is. In fact, because it is so important, I certainly hope we have an opportunity to debate fully its ramifications, especially with issues such as the Ex- Im Bank, which I heard two of my colleagues discuss with some vigor just a few moments ago. Amendment No. 1251 At this time I wish to talk about an amendment that I am offering with Senator Brown to require approval of Congress before any additional countries may join the Trans-Pacific Partnership. The 12 countries currently participating in TPP negotiations encompass about 40 percent of the global gross domestic Product. This would be the largest free-trade agreement since NAFTA, and Members should know that this agreement has the potential to expand to a number of additional countries without congressional approval. The administration has said that they would welcome interest from other nations, including China, in joining TPP. Given the impact that trade deals, such as NAFTA, have had on American businesses and workers, I would argue that it is important that Congress not only be notified of new negotiations but also have the opportunity to vote on whether to move forward with bringing on additional countries into multinational trade negotiations. If Congress were to approve the Trans-Pacific Partnership, it should not and must not be a blank check to bring in additional nations without congressional approval.…”