Political Quotes

“Mr. President, I rise to speak about the pending business, which is the trade promotion authority, also known as TPA, adding to the many initials we are throwing around these days. I thought the Senate came to an agreement to move forward on this legislation, and as promised by the majority leader allowing amendments, but we are not getting to vote. I hope we can note that the objections are not coming from the Republican side of the aisle. I believe the United States must engage in a global marketplace if they are going to survive economically. I also understand there are concerns about TPA. In particular, there is confusion about what exactly happens when Congress passes a TPA bill. History provides us an insight into why Congress created this particular authority. Article I of the U.S. Constitution states, ``Congress shall have the Power To . . . regulate Commerce with foreign nations.'' For over 150 years, Congress established tariff rates directly. However, under the Reciprocal Trade Agreement of 1934, RTAA--more initials--Congress delegated this authority to the President, who could reduce tariffs within preapproved levels in reciprocal trade agreements. In response to Presidential overreach under the act, Congress enacted the first trade promotion authority bill in 1974. Since that time, Congress has regularly enacted TPA legislation which defines U.S. negotiating objectives and priorities for trade agreements.…”