Bush Appoints New U.S. Trade Rep

President Bush announced today that he has nominated his current U.S. Trade Representative, Rob Portman, for director of the Office of Management and Budget. He also plans to promote Portman's deputy, Susan Schwab, to fill the position. Although both positions require a confirmation from the U.S. Senate, once confirmed, Schwab will have full responsibility for negotiating trade agreements and opening international markets.

Since President Bush has been in office, his trade representatives have implemented a trade policy that has jeopardized the economic security of rural America. Over the last five years, this Administration has entered into numerous unfair trade agreements, weakened our agricultural safety net for little in return, and failed to enforce existing trade agreements. These trade policies have sent countless jobs overseas, led to a record trade deficit, and placed our national food security at risk.

America can do better. Our domestic producers and manufacturers desperately need someone to stand up for their interests and the economic security of this country.