Tuesday, U.S. Representative Terri Sewell (D-Selma) commented on passage of the United States Mexico Canada Agreement on trade and the changes to the historic trade deal negotiated by House Democrats.
“A year ago, the Trump Administration delivered to Congress a deal that was unenforceable, inadequate and dead on arrival. House Democrats worked tirelessly to make transformative changes to the labor, environment, access to medicines, and enforcement provisions in the deal,” Sewell said. “I am particularly proud that we have made this agreement enforceable by fixing the state-to-state mechanism and adding an enhanced rapid-response enforcement mechanism for labor.”
“At the end of the day, the Working Group demanded changes that would benefit American workers, and we delivered. Democrats are creating a paradigm shift around our country’s trade policy, especially for the benefit of Alabama workers, farmers and manufacturers,” Sewell added. “This is a big win for Alabama and will help ensure workers and industry are able to compete on a level playing field.”
“I want to congratulate Speaker Pelosi, Chairman Neal, the Working Group and House Democrats on successfully negotiating a truly transformative trade agreement with Canada and Mexico,” Sewell continued. “We have been laser-focused on legislating this Congress, and this new North American Trade Agreement is no exception.”
Passage of the Mexico Canada Trade Agreement was a major win for the Trump Administration. Donald J. Trump (R) was elected criticizing NAFTA and promising to renegotiate the deal. House passage of the trade agreement delivered on that promise.
House Minority Whip Steve Scalise (R-Louisiana) said, “Republicans pushed for a deal on #USMCA for months while Pelosi wasted time on her impeachment sham. We finally have an agreement. Passing @realDonaldTrump’s strong trade deal will be a major boost for our economy and a huge win for American workers. No more delays. Let’s vote!”
House Majority Whip Jim Clyburn (D-South Carolina) said, “The U.S. Mexico Canada Agreement (USMCA): -Will boost the economy -Support workers -Protect the environment -And improve access to affordable prescription drugs It’s a win for Americans and a model for future trade agreements.”
House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-California) said, “We’re living through the greatest economy in our lifetime with record unemployment and rising wages. #USMCA will ensure the prosperity continues.”
Congressman Mike Rogers (R-Saks) said, “President Trump and Congressional Republicans have been pushing for months for Congress to vote on the USMCA. President Trump made the promise to fix unfair trade deals. The new USMCA will be great for our economy across America and Alabama. Democrats need to stop playing politics with what is best for our Nation. This is a WIN for our country! #AL03.”
Rep. Terri Sewell is a member of the Ways and Means Subcommittee on Trade and a member of the Democratic Working Group chosen by Speaker Nancy Pelosi to negotiate improvements to the new United States Mexico Canada Agreement on trade.
