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Setting the nation's trade agenda has often been a tug of war between Congress and president. The fast-track legislation of recent years has empowered the White House with negotiating the terms of trade agreements, but they still have to pass Congress to become law. For all the critics over China's trade practices and second-guessing over existing trade pacts such as Nafta and Cafta, the US trade sector is booming, thanks partly to the weak US dollar. Trade, however, remains a high profile and emotional issue because it often means keeping jobs at home or saving them altogether.

 

TRADE

 

  • John McCain (R)

      Says, "every time the United States has become protectionist ... we've paid a very heavy price." Believes the opening new markets is crucial to future economic prosperity, provided it serves the interests of American workers and intellectual property is protected. Supports Cafta and Nafta. Opposes environmental standards in trade agreements.

  • Barack Obama (D)

      Supports fair trade, but says, “Our trade agreements should not just be good for Wall Street, it should also be good for Main Street.” Would amend Nafta to include labor agreements. Voted against Cafta in 2005 because of deficient labor and environmental standards. Wants safety laws enforced on imported China products, such as toys.





ADDITIONAL POLITICAL COVERAGE


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