Tim at a hearing in Sioux Falls, SD

Free trade doesn't mean fair trade, and fair trade is crucial in keeping our agricultural producers in the fold. While I support trade agreements that level the playing field in which American producers market their goods, I continue to hear from producers throughout the state who are tired of the unrealized promises of this Administration's trade negotiations. Time and time again, this Administration offers up agriculture as a bargaining chip to push trade agreements through. Not only does the United States still have a trade deficit for all commodities traded, but our rural communities continue to struggle with out-migration. I believe that our trade policies must be fair to agricultural producers and rural communities.

I voted against the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and the Central American Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA). Today, I still have many concerns about the effects of NAFTA, CAFTA, and other free trade agreements. It concerns me greatly that this Administration chooses to go forward with more trade agreements when it is clear that American workers and farmers are the big losers in these agreements.

I also have long held concerns regarding the President's Trade Promotion Authority (TPA) power, given that under this process, the trade agreements submitted to Congress by this Administration can only be voted on in an all or nothing fashion. Congress can't propose changes or alterations to trade agreements whatsoever under TPA. Without TPA, an administration can still negotiate trade agreements. However, the final agreement could be amended by Congress. Our nation has a long history of entering into successful trade agreements without TPA. TPA expired on July 1, 2007.

During the summer of 2006, the World Trade Organization (WTO) Doha round of negotiations collapsed because of an agriculture policy gridlock. I adamantly opposed the U.S. Trade Representative's recommendations because of the significant cuts to the United States' price safety net. An agriculture policy agreement by way of the world trade talks would have translated into WTO-established priorities and guidelines for writing our domestic farm programs. Rural America simply cannot afford to be cut off at the knees at the expense of this Administration's empty promises.

I will continue looking for ways to expand our export markets for agricultural goods, providing more opportunity for our agriculture producers, while also working to reduce our huge trade deficit. As the Senate considers trade agreements, I will continue to represent the interests of South Dakota and will promote fair trade for greater economic opportunities.

USDA: Information on Trade | United States Trade Representative | World Trade Organization