Both in South Dakota and in Washington, I repeatedly hear the same thing: Support free trade but hold bad actors accountable. As Americans, our innovation and ambition has allowed us to compete and succeed in a global market, but the playing field should be even. South Dakota has benefited greatly from market access, particularly for agricultural products. But success doesn’t mean there isn’t room for improvement. The producers I hear from weekly want to hold China accountable for their wrongdoing.
If there is room for improvement, and there is, Congress should be leading the charge. That’s why I am urging my colleagues and Speaker Nancy Pelosi to bring the U.S. Mexico Canada Trade Agreement to the House floor for ratification before August. No agreement will ever be perfect, but there is no doubt the USMCA represents a real improvement from the North American Free Trade Agreement. NAFTA has led this country to prosperity in the international trade arena — but after decades, it’s time for an upgrade.
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