Rep. Richard Pascrell (D-NJ), the ranking member of the House Ways & Means trade subcommittee, wants to chair the panel once the Democrats take over the House in January.
[November 6, 2018 | Inside US Trade]
In a letter to colleagues, Pascrell says he has the “experience and leadership skills” to lead the subcommittee. “I have sought your input and priorities in shaping our messaging and strategy on trade,” the letter states. “With your support, I will build upon the excellent work we have done together.”
Part of that work, Pascrell adds, will involve close scrutiny of the administration’s trade policies.
“The Republicans have refused to hold a single hearing with Administration witnesses on NAFTA or tariffs, despite our repeated requests,” he states. “Without hesitation, I would hold regular meetings and public hearings with members of this Administration to impose transparency and assert Congress’s constitutional role in setting trade policy.”
Noting a momentous time for trade policy, with the administration embarking on multiple negotiations and attempting to push the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement through Congress, Pascrell claims a close working relationship with U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and says he will continue to fight for tougher standards in trade deals.
In a letter to colleagues, Pascrell says he has the “experience and leadership skills” to lead the subcommittee. “I have sought your input and priorities in shaping our messaging and strategy on trade,” the letter states. “With your support, I will build upon the excellent work we have done together.”
Part of that work, Pascrell adds, will involve close scrutiny of the administration’s trade policies.
“The Republicans have refused to hold a single hearing with Administration witnesses on NAFTA or tariffs, despite our repeated requests,” he states. “Without hesitation, I would hold regular meetings and public hearings with members of this Administration to impose transparency and assert Congress’s constitutional role in setting trade policy.”
Noting a momentous time for trade policy, with the administration embarking on multiple negotiations and attempting to push the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement through Congress, Pascrell claims a close working relationship with U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and says he will continue to fight for tougher standards in trade deals.
