The Problem

For over a decade, the United States has entered into numerous so-called “free” trade agreements. While these agreements have been profitable for large, multinational corporations, they have been costly to American workers and their families, as well as workers and the environment in other countries. American workers are experiencing stagnant wages and greater economic inequality more now than at any time since 1928. So why does Congress continue to pass trade legislation that is not in the interest of American workers?

The simple reason is the pervasive and powerful presence of special interests in our nation’s capital. There are now more than 60 Washington lobbyists for every member of Congress, a number that has tripled in the last decade. With lobbyists and Political Action Committees (PACs) funding campaigns, it is no surprise that average Americans lose out. Last year alone, my opponent, Leonard Boswell, received $722,000 in contributions – over 74% of it from PACs. He also joined the Republicans – against the majority of Democrats – to pass free trade agreements with Peru (2007), Chile (2003), and Singapore (2003).

My Background

I have consistently spoken out against NAFTA and similar free trade agreements. During my 14 years in the state legislature I consistently supported legislation to increase the minimum wage, joined workers on the picket line dozens of times, organized a series of events in support of workers on strike at Firestone in 1994, and introduced legislation to prevent the hiring of replacement workers. I retired from the legislature with a lifetime AFL-CIO voting record of 88%.

The Solution

We don’t need so-called “free” trade. We need fair trade. Existing and future trade agreements must be evaluated to determine their fairness to workers, their families, and the environment, and not simply to increasing corporate profits. Agreements should be crafted with an eye to retaining American jobs. My approach to fair trade will:

·         Require enforcement of workers’ rights and livable wages in other countries

·         Require strong environmental standards

·         Use trade policy to strengthen our own economy

·         Eliminate tax incentives for corporations to move overseas

·         Strengthen safety requirements on foreign

imports such as toys, food, and prescription drugs

Fair trade also means building up the middle class in other countries, as well as our own. Poverty is not only a humanitarian crisis but also a threat to national security. Terrorism around the world is fed by increasing poverty levels, so improving the well-being of workers in other countries is a vital means of protecting American interests as well.

I will be a clear and strong voice in Washington, speaking for the interests of workers and for trade policies that protect them, their jobs, and the environment.