Rep. Ben Cardin on Thursday accused China of “continued denial of basic international labor standards” and, along with a prominent conservative Republican, Rep. Chris Smith of New Jersey, asked the U.S. trade representative to investigate its practices.

Cardin, D-3rd, is a longtime advocate for human-rights issues, particularly in China, but his action drew a quick attack from the Maryland Republican Party, which said the congressman “says one thing, does another” because in 2000 he voted to approve permanent normal trade relations with China.

Recommended Stories

Poll: Cardin, Mfume in close race, but top Steele

Rep. Ben Cardin’s money a target of his foes

Community seeks to encourage Islamic activism