Political Quotes

“I was under the impression that we would be able to have discussion and debate on the legislation before us. My two amendments would deal with two very serious issues. I am disappointed that we have an objection. My first amendment, 1233, would ensure that any changes to U.S. law or policy are passed by Congress. Specifically, if implementing legislation allowed future changes to be made to a trade agreement that could affect or overrule existing U.S. law without Congressional approval, then that legislation could not be fast-tracked. The implementing legislation would have to guarantee that all future changes would have to be approved by Congress. I think that is perfectly appropriate, and it is an absolute responsibility of Congress to ensure its own authority in matters of these kind. Indeed, the Constitution gives plenary authority to Congress over immigration law and trade. Under this amendment that I have offered, Congress cannot delegate the power to change U.S. law to the Executive--Congress cannot do that and must not do that--or to some international body that would be created if this trade agreement--the Trans-Pacific Partnership--enters into force. This is not made clear under the current bill. Colleagues, we need to think about this commission--an international commission--that will be created with 11 trading partners in the TPP.…”