The disingenuous (or lying ass) arguments for passing Trade Promotion Authority

[cali]

aka fast track.

The arguments run something like this: Just vote for TPA and we'll be able to see the Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement and have 60 days to review it. Members of Congress will be able to weigh in and we'll have a debate on the merits of the agreement. Never mind that the TPA is years long proposition that will enable other trade deals to get rammed through and could end up in Republican hands.

But here's the real, dirty not-so-secret: Passing TPA is passing the TPP, TTIP and whatever other FTA concoction is being brewed in the USTR (there are several). TPA doesn't just dictate an up or down vote on trade agreements, it governs how this agreements are negotiated and sets specific objectives. This TPA has been criticized by many analysts and members of Congress for what it doesn't contain.

Why does passing TPA mean passing the TPP? Because if you have the votes for TPA you have the votes for the TPP. That simple. No matter what it contains. That's the way it works. That's the way it has worked 100% of the time in the past. 100%.

This is why the battle over TPA has been so prolonged and rancorous. The battle over TPA IS the battle over the TPP.

Elizabeth Warren Says Fast-Track Greases Skids for Hidden Trade Deal
http://www.bloomberg.com/politics/articles/2015-05-19/warren-says-congress-should-demand-release-of-trade-pact-draft

[djean111]

1. As far as I am concerned, the TPP/TPA/TTIP has always been in Republican hands.

No matter what the letter on the jersey.

[cali]

2. I actually think this is bipartisan stuff. Look at all the Dem think tanks

From Brookings to CAP, they all push for those deals.

[djean111]

3. Oh, thinking about it, you are absolutely correct. I meant in Congress AND the White House.

[cali]

4. kick

if TPA passes, it's over. Not only will the TPP pass but so will the TTIP. Game, set, match.