Governors Chime In on Trade

International trade is of course a key part of our national economy.  And negotiating trade agreements is solidly in the purview of the Federal government.  So what do can a governor of a state do if she/he has something to say about trade policy.  Well, not much really.  All our poor hypothetical governor can do is voice his/her opinion.  Of course, the administration may be more willing to listen to the opinion of a governor.

They certainly may be more willing to pay attention to 25 governors.

As it turns out 25 non-hypothetical governors have signed on to an open letter to high ranking members of Congress as well as the President, urging the Federal Government to do everything they can to pass several trade agreements that are in the works.

The agreements in question are with South Korea, Columbia and Panama.  The letter also urges Congress to grant the President fast-track trade negotiation authority, something Congress has done for every President since 1974.

As to why these governors are concerned, the letter states, “As the chief executives or our respective states and territories we appreciate how important international trade and investment are to the economic vitality of our jurisdictions, presenting important opportunities for workers, and enhancing our overall competitiveness.  Export related jobs pay better than non-exporting industries and, with nearly 95 percent of the world’s consumers living outside of the U.S., exports have been the focus of increase job growth in recent years.”