Orrin Hatch: “Over the years, I have been a strong advocate for free trade. Free trade is important. I know of no other endeavor that…”

“Over the years, I have been a strong advocate for free trade. Free trade is important. I know of no other endeavor that affords us the opportunity to forge closer links between nations while simultaneously improving the lives of millions. The vast majority of economists agree that free trade is in every nation's long-term best interests. Diplomats also know that it is far easier to reach a compromise between nations whose economies are mutually reliant. That being said, there are certain aspects of free trade that cause me concern. We need to be ever vigilant to ensure our approach to free trade does not relinquish our sovereign rights as a nation. Over the last few years, I have heard from many Utahns who are concerned that the U.S. is relinquishing sovereignty to other countries through our trade agreements. Let me make clear that we absolutely cannot give up our right to govern within our own borders. We have laws for a reason and they represent the ideals and values we hold dear in our society. Constituents contact me on a constant basis to underscore their frustration with the gradual loss of sovereignty the U.S. is experiencing in international arenas. Local lawmakers from across the country are reaching out to us and asking for our help in ensuring their local laws and authority remain intact as we enter into international trade agreements. Indeed, recently, the Utah State Legislature passed a resolution which echoes these concerns.…”