Erik Paulsen: “Earlier this summer Democrats and Republicans came together to pass a trade authorization bill that set the standards…”

“Earlier this summer Democrats and Republicans came together to pass a trade authorization bill that set the standards for any trade deal that the United States negotiates with other countries. It guarantees oversight by Congress, it guarantees transparency for the public, and it guarantees that our negotiators have the opportunity to get the best deal for our workers, our farmers, our ranchers, and our employers. This week trade negotiators from 12 different countries around the Pacific Rim are meeting in Hawaii for negotiations with the Trans- Pacific Partnership. It is a deal that will open doors for American businesses to sell their products overseas and create jobs right here at home. Mr. Speaker, the fact of the matter is this: 95 percent of the world's consumers live outside of the United States; 80 percent of the world's purchasing power is outside of the United States. We need to allow our American companies to compete and to be able to sell their products and goods and services or we will fall behind. In addition, these negotiations will allow America to act as a counterweight to the growing influence of China in the region. If the United States doesn't write the rules for the global economy, China will step in and write them, and it won't be to the benefit of American workers and businesses. Mr.…”