April 18, 2008

Rep. Calvert Calls on Leadership to Allow a Vote on the Colombian Free Trade Agreement

Dear Friends,

Many of you have read, and are experiencing first-hand, the slow down in our economy.  Unemployment has increased, the housing market continues to struggle and gas prices are rising.  Now is the time to seize opportunities to open new markets for California and American goods. You may also know that I am a strong supporter of free-market policies.  I consistently vote in favor of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) because in most cases, U.S. products are disproportionately taxed in foreign markets.  Free trade agreements level the playing field for American workers and producers and Americans pay less for goods.  

Last week President Bush sent the Colombian Free Trade Agreement to Congress for approval.  In an unprecedented move, Speaker Pelosi delayed a vote on the Colombian FTA which is under 90-day fast track rules.  The delay essentially kills the bill which, if ratified, would boost annual exports to Colombia by an estimated $1 billion. Colombian goods currently enter the U.S. duty-free but American goods entering into Colombia are taxed. If ratified, the agreement.  The agreement would be a boon to American businesses and workers.

Speaker Pelosi’s decision also severely hinders any future Administration’s ability to negotiate FTAs.  Countries will not negotiate with the U.S. if Congress does not take a strict up or down vote on the merits, but instead modifies the agreement with politically motivated amendments. FTAs that have been signed by the respective leaders and awaiting U.S. Congressional approval include those for South Korea and Panama. It is important to note, the South Korea FTA is critical to the citrus, finance, automotive and beef industries. 

I also believe that Free Trade Agreements foster ties with countries that may be able to help the United States and sends a clear signal to the world that we are willing to support those who share our values of economic freedom and democracy. Unfortunately the protectionist stance of Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) has jeopardized our trading relationships with other countries. 

It is a disgrace that we are abandoning our friend and ally, and American businesses and workers, to serve a protectionist union-led agenda.  Speaker Pelosi must not listen to special interests but instead support legislation benefits the American people.  I will continue to work with my fellow free-market colleagues to support free trade agreements that are in our nation’s economic and security interests.

I welcome your input as I understand this is an issue that is important to the constituents of the 44^th Congressional District of California. 

Sincerely,

KEN CALVERT

Member of Congress