Michigan Senators Carl Levin and Debbie Stabenow split their votes on the controversial Peru Free Trade Agreement today in the Senate. Levin supported the trade agreement while Stabenow opposed it. Overall, the agreement passed by a vote of 77-18 with five not voting. The Senators not voting–Biden, Clinton, Dodd, McCain, and Obama–are all candidates in the upcoming presidential election.
Stabenow issued a statement summarizing her opposition:
“I appreciate all the hard work my colleagues have put into having this agreement reflect our country’s values when it comes to labor and environmental standards. Getting the right words on paper is certainly important. But, for me, the right words on paper aren’t enough. I cannot support another trade agreement ahead of enforcing our trade laws, improving product safety, keeping our promises to working Americans and ensuring a level playing field for businesses and workers. What we need in this country is a comprehensive trade policy that puts American workers and businesses first. It is time to stand up for the middle class in this country, who have worked so hard to make this country great.”
Last month, Grand Rapids area congressional representative Vern Ehlers voted for the agreement.
Related posts:
