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Fast Track Passes in the House
WASHINGTON – Congressman Bernie Sanders (I-VT) cast a strong “No” vote against the Fast Track trade bill today which passed by a slim one-vote margin (215-214) on the floor of the House. The Fast Track trade bill transfers constitutionally-mandated powers of Congress to the Executive Branch by giving the President the authority to submit trade agreements to Congress for a ‘yes’ or ‘no’ vote without amendment.
Sanders expressed disappointment with the vote. “By voting against Fast Track I stand with workers, environmentalists, family farmers and religious organization who understand that this legislation is designed to protect the interests of large multi-national corporations, and not the average American. Our current trade policy has given us a trade deficit of over $400 billion in 2000 and has cost the U.S. millions of decent paying jobs. The simple truth is that American workers should not have to compete against desperate people in China and other developing countries who are paid 20 cents an hour and often lack basic democratic rights. Our current trade policy should not be placed on a “fast track.” It should be completely reformed.”
Sanders voted NO on transfer of
Congressional powers to Executive Branch
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