On the recordFebruary 23, 2010
With employment close to 10 percent nationwide, it's time to promote stable private sector jobs. The people of my home State of New Jersey have long depended on international trade to drive economic growth and put people to work. The United States is the world's largest exporter with $1.29 trillion in revenue last year, a symbol of America's global leadership. As the world becomes more integrated, our economy and employment are increasingly driven by trade. Unfortunately, the House majority leadership has chosen to indefinitely postpone consideration of all major trade agreements with Colombia, South Korea, and Panama. American businesses, large and small, are deprived of more and more economic opportunities each and every day Congress delays their implementation. Countries in Europe and Asia have already completed or are poised to complete trade agreements with these nations. This will put our American exporters at a distinct disadvantage. Mr. Speaker, we need these trade agreements. Our international competitors are eating our economic lunch.
