On the recordMay 22, 2015
as we bring this very dramatic chapter in U.S. trade policy to its conclusion in the Senate, I wish to take a few minutes to acknowledge the many people who helped in ways large and small to bring about the passage of the Bipartisan Congressional Trade Priorities and Accountability Act. First and foremost, I thank Chairman Hatch for his partnership throughout the process. I think Chairman Hatch and I can smile a bit looking back on some very spirited debates in the process of getting to this point. I do want colleagues to understand that Chairman Hatch has been a true leader in this bipartisan effort in the Finance Committee and on the floor. I thank Chairman Hatch and his staff for all they have done. I think both Chairman Hatch and I also want to acknowledge our partner in the House, Chairman Ryan. All through the discussions, Chairman Hatch, Chairman Ryan, and myself, all tried to make sure that we would have a bipartisan, bicameral collaborative effort. The three of us obviously don't see eye to eye on everything, but we thought it was very important to try to come together and move an extraordinarily important and challenging economic policy forward for the country. Chairman Ryan has been there every single step of the way, and we look forward to returning the favor as he moves this historic package through the House and on to the President's desk. We also thank Leader McConnell for his work in shepherding this package through the process.…





