Drama, it’s everywhere these days. From impeachment hearings in Washington to GOP civil wars under the Gold Dome, 2020 is setting up to be one of the most dramatic political years in recent memory. But Wednesday morning, as President Donald Trump inked the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement on the South Lawn of the White House, we saw a brief moment of peace and quiet as politicians from both sides of the aisle praised the deal and its ramifications for the North American economy.
The updated USMCA deal will modernize economic relations between the three countries, replacing what Trump called the “NAFTA nightmare,” and fulfilling one of his key campaign promises from back in 2016. In December Sen. David Perdue (R-GA) called the agreement “groundbreaking,” saying that “not only will the USMCA continue our country’s historic economic turnaround, but it will also give the Trump Administration negotiating power in trade talks with China and other countries.”
Gov. Brian Kemp, who received Trump’s support in his successful 2018 gubernatorial primary, (and subsequent general election) was quick to praise the deal and its implications for the Peach State. “The USMCA will open new markets for Georgia-grown goods and add to the tremendous success of the Savannah Port,” said Kemp. “The bipartisan passage – and now signing – of the USMCA represents a promising, new era for fair trade between the U.S., Mexico, and Canada. I applaud President Trump on his leadership to get this deal negotiated and passed, and I look forward to the agreement creating greater opportunities for countless Americans.”
Democrats, in the midst of their feverish effort to oust the president from office, likewise voiced their support for the trade deal.
Said U.S. Rep. Lucy McBath (D-GA-06), “The signing of the USMCA today solidifies our efforts to protect workers, ensure a stable framework for a thriving economy, set a fair and equal standard for international trade, preserve access to affordable prescription drugs, and require improved environmental guidelines. Business owners and community leaders in our community have been asking for a trade agreement that strengthens our economy and protects hardworking Americans. With the support and work of Congressional leadership, the White House, and our global partners, we came together, settled our differences, and found a better deal for a prosperous future. I’m proud to see it signed by the President today and that it ensures our North American businesses are competitive, our workers are empowered, and our economies are strong.”
