Reichert Letter to the Editor: Talk Trade
From the Seattle Post-Intelligencer
Washington, D.C.,
Jul 10, 2008 -
I commend Joel Connelly for emphasizing the importance of a national discussion of America's openness to trade in his Monday column ("Time for Candidates to Talk Trade"). In fact, I'd like to expand Connelly's call to Sens. Barack Obama and John McCain to publicly debate trade policy, and encourage all Washington residents to ask the governor, their congressional representatives and other local officials what they are doing to open new markets and level the economic playing field for U.S. workers.
Trade is the cornerstone of our state's economy. One in three jobs is connected to trade, and Washington businesses large and small contribute to exporting more than $61 billion in goods and services annually. That is precisely why we must enact pending free trade agreements with Colombia, Panama and South Korea. I have repeatedly called on our congressional delegation to join me in urging House leaders to put aside election-year politics and bring these vital trade measures to the floor for votes. Thus far, the response has been muted.
In this period of economic uncertainty, it is imperative that we continue to pursue job-creating, pro-growth policies that keep our nation competitive in the global economy. Trade grows the economy, creates jobs, and strengthens diplomatic relations with strategic allies. Our region depends on free trade like few others in the world. It is my hope that the voices of Northwest residents and more public debate on trade policy will encourage our congressional delegation to unite in advancing these pending trade agreements.
U.S. Rep. Dave Reichert
8th District
This letter is in response to the column,"Time for candidates to talk trade," by Joel Connelly, printed in the Seattle Post-Intelligencer.
