*For all press release inquiries, please reach out to Theresa Meyer (Theresa.Meyer@mail.house.gov)

Washington, D.C. -- U.S. Representatives Tom Emmer (MN-06) and Mimi Walters (CA-45) released the following statements after sending a letter to President Obama urging swift action on enacting Trade Promotion Authority (TPA) legislation. Walters and Emmer led the freshman class in sending the letter, with more than two dozen of their freshman colleagues signing in support. Text of this letter can be found here.

Said Rep. Tom Emmer: “Since the expiration of TPA, Congress has little to no say in negotiating treaties trade deals. With TPA, Congress would be exercising its Constitutional authority over trade. We, as members of the U.S. House of Representatives, would be able to represent our constituency by demanding that America’s trade deals best reflect the priorities of the American public and American workers. With 38 million American jobs supported by international trade, swift action early this year on TPA would pave the way for sustained economic growth and further job creation.” 

Said Rep. Mimi Walters: “International trade is a critical component to job creation, higher wages, and increased economic opportunity both in the United States and abroad. One of the best mechanisms that Congress has to ensure free and fair trade that benefits all Americans, is through Trade Promotion Authority. TPA gives Congress the power to establish negotiating objectives, while ensuring that those objectives are upheld by requiring a final up-or-down vote by Congress. It provides the United States with the platform to enter into trade agreements that expand and open overseas markets, which thereby boost economic growth and job opportunities back home. My freshman colleagues and I were pleased to unite behind this issue and are hopeful the President will make TPA a top priority during the 114th Congress.”

Walters represents California’s 45th District and is on the House Transportation and Judiciary Committees. Emmer represents Minnesota’s 6th District and is on the House Foreign Affairs and Agriculture Committees. Click here to view the text of their letter.

Further Reading:
Star Tribune: Emmer: Why trade promotion authority is key to global agreements

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