Reschenthaler Votes for Trump’s Trade Deal to Create Jobs, Grow U.S. Economy
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Guy Reschenthaler (PA-14) voted for the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) negotiated by President Donald Trump which will create 176,000 American jobs and generate more than $68 billion in new economic activity. This agreement passed the House by a strong bipartisan vote of 385 to 41 and now heads to the Senate for ratification.
"Over a year ago, President Trump signed a deal on USMCA, achieving a historic victory for workers and farmers in southwestern Pennsylvania and throughout the nation," said Reschenthaler. "After months of delays by Speaker Pelosi and House Democrats, I am proud to vote to ratify this long overdue deal that will bring our trade policy into the 21st century. Thank you to President Trump for negotiating an agreement that holds Mexico and Canada accountable and generates new economic opportunities for American workers and families. "
Because of Pennsylvania's strong trade ties with Canada and Mexico, the state will benefit greatly from USMCA. In 2017 alone, Pennsylvania exported over $10 billion worth of goods to Canada and over $4 billion worth of goods to Mexico. Nearly 500,000 jobs across the state are supported by U.S. trade with our North American neighbors. By removing the red tape and barriers to trade, USMCA will empower job creators to grow their businesses and hire even more workers.
Importantly, USMCA improves access to international markets for many of the industries that drive our state's economy. Pennsylvania farmers currently export over $1 billion in goods each year to Canada and Mexico. This agreement creates even more export opportunities by eliminating Canada's protectionist dairy program and opening access for chicken, eggs, and turkey exports.
U.S. manufacturing is another key sector that will enjoy new protections under the USMCA. The deal includes stronger rules of origin, meaning more goods and materials, including Pennsylvania steel, will be manufactured in the U.S. The USMCA also includes the first digital trade chapter in any trade agreement. Further, the agreement puts in place new labor standards that will force Mexico to end its efforts to gain a competitive edge by undercutting American workers.
"President Trump has already fostered an economic resurgence through his pro-growth policies, and the USMCA will further that progress for years to come," said Reschenthaler. "I look forward to the Trump Administration's continued work to improve our nation's trade agreements."
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