America and the European Union have a storied history of cooperation and success when it comes to international politics and trade. The EU has been one of the United States’ most trusted and important strategic allies and trading partners.
That history hasn’t been perfect, of course. Our two parties have had our fair share of differences. One of the longest-ever running disputes at the World Trade Organization is between the U.S. and EU regarding hormones in beef. Agriculture has always been a sticking point between us, which is why now is the opportunity for our leaders to begin working diligently on a resolution.
It is with that in mind that I, and other members of Congress, were disappointed and frustrated when EU Ambassador to the U.S. David O’Sullivan said the U.S. and Europe cannot include agriculture in upcoming trade talks, because it would “make it a very long and complicated negotiation.”
According to the U.S. Trade Representative, the U.S. domestic exports of agricultural products to the EU totaled $11.5 billion in 2016. That means the EU countries together would rank fourth as an agricultural export market for the U.S. Together, they rank first as the U.S.’ top trading partner.
It is crucial that in this difficult time for Kansas producers, those of us in Washington do absolutely everything in our power to provide open, fair markets where they can sell their goods. Soybeans, beef, and pork are among the most important to Kansans in this deal.
Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, was exactly right when he tweeted the following:
EU’s ambassador is trying to hurt American agriculture by saying we can’t negotiate w EU on ag in a new trade deal Sounds like they are trying to pull one over on Pres Trump to the detriment of American farmers Pres Trump/USTR Lighthizer R too smart 4 that!
— ChuckGrassley (@ChuckGrassley) November 28, 2018
I couldn’t agree more.
Let’s work together. This is the work we are here to do. We are not here to cower from difficult issues because they’re “complicated” or contentious. O’Sullivan’s out-of-touch comments demonstrate a legitimate misunderstanding of the value of a strong trade deal and a deeper misunderstanding of the mandate with which President Trump was elected.
I implore the president and the USTR to not only stay firm, but also to go on the offense for American producers. Kansans will be there to fight with you. If agriculture isn’t in this deal, however, I and many of my colleagues will not consider it or support it.
Rep. Roger Marshall, a Republican, represents Kansas’ 1st Congressional District.
